People struggling with addiction could easily find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Not only is the substance involved in their addiction illegal for them to abuse, but chemical dependence could lead to criminal activity in other areas of their lives.
Someone struggling with addiction could become trapped in a cycle of arrests and consequences without addressing the underlying issue causing their legal problems. California drug courts can offer certain criminal defendants an opportunity to break that cycle and possibly put their history of criminal behavior and substance abuse in the past where they belong.
How do the California drug courts work?
The California drug courts primarily work with people after a conviction or guilty plea, although some defendants may be able to go through the drug courts without pleading guilty.
California drug courts can offer an alternative to traditional sentencing or incarceration, with the added potential bonus of limiting the long-term consequences of this most recent criminal infraction. Treatment and close monitoring typically play major roles in drug court recommendations. The focus is on rehabilitation, not punishment.
If a defendant successfully completes all of the requirements set by the drug courts, they may be able to avoid long-term incarceration while also connecting with treatment or even job training. They will also have a statistically improved chance of avoiding recidivism.
Learning about how the drug courts work could help you decide if they might be an option for you. You will want to consider every option as you plan a criminal defense strategy if you find yourself accused of a drug offense or a crime related to addiction.