If you have been charged with drug possession for the first time in Ohio, is there any way to avoid jail? Until it happens to you or a loved one it's hard to imagine the impact that a drug possession conviction can have on your life. Often, this is also the first time that you or loved ones are forced to confront the fact that you are an addict who needs help.
Drug Court
Drug Court is a special court that handles the judgement and treatment of first time offenders who abuse drugs. It is a unique collaboration where judges, court personnel and treatment providers come together in recognition that rehabilitation is the best way to stop the revolving door cycle so many drugs addicts get into with the courts.
You can only be eligible if the drug crime you were charged with is considered low level and non-violent; drug possession is an example of a crime where the offender can be given the opportunity to participate in drug court.
In Ohio, studies have shown that drug offenders often have more problems than just drug abuse:
- Unemployment or inability to keep a job
- Low level of education, perhaps not even a high school diploma or GED
- Mental illness
Drug Court is its most successful when the ancillary problems can be dealt with along with the drug abuse.
How Does It Work?
Offenders must agree to the strict rules of drug court, which can include curfews, attendance at group and individual counseling sessions, and most importantly - frequent, random drug tests. They also appear regularly before a judge to report their progress during the 18 months it usually takes to complete a drug court program.
Small tokens or rewards such as a gift card for a movie ticket or increased freedom are earned through compliance with the rules and meeting goals that are individually set.
What is the Main Benefit?
The main benefit of drug court to the offender is the opportunity to learn skills to stay sober and get and keep a job. Living the rest of your life with a conviction for drug possession is not easy, but the successful drug court graduate can have the drug charge removed from their record.
Get Legal Help
Hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Sometimes your attorney can defend you by finding legal errors that were made during your arrest, but if not they might be able to help you into a drug court program and in either case will certainly consult with you about the best strategy for your defense.
