Drug courts in New Jersey can greatly benefit offenders who struggle with drug addiction. If you have committed a crime and struggle with drug dependency, you may be eligible to attend drug court. Read on for more information regarding what drug court is and whether you will be eligible to be involved.
What is Drug Court?
Drug court is a special program for people who struggle with drug addiction and have committed a crime. Non-violent offenders who have a moderate to severe substance use disorder are eligible.
How do I Know if I am Eligible?
In order to be considered to partake in the program, you will have to meet some specific requirements. These requirements include:
- must benefit from treatment for drug or alcohol dependency
- must have been dependent when the offense was committed
- Must have been under the influence of committing the crime to support the dependency
- Did not have a firearm in their possession during this crime or during any other crime
- Must not be a danger to the community
- Has not been convicted more than once of a crime
- Has not been previously convicted or charged with a violent crime
What are the Requirements of the Program?
Some of the requirements you will have to meet during the program include:
- Attending treatment
- There are different types of treatment. For example, a participant can go to detox, outpatient treatment, or residential treatment. The level of treatment is based on the participant’s clinical needs for recovery. Drug testing is involved.
- At the beginning of the program, participants will be ordered to attend court weekly. As the participant moves through the program, he or she will be able to attend court less often.
- Participants are required to attend self-help meetings. For example, participants may become involved in alcoholics anonymous (AA) or narcotics anonymous (NA).
- The drug court team will work with each participant to obtain and maintain employment, education, or both.
- Many participants have their driver’s license returned or get a driver’s license for the first time when they enter the program.
If you have been charged with a drug-related crime, you may be eligible to participate in a drug court program. Contact our firm for more information regarding drug courts in New Jersey.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
