The drug courts, which are a type of Accountability Court, serve an important function in the criminal justice system. They are an alternative to traditional prosecution that treats drug offenses as a form of moral failure, rather than the consequence of a very real medical issue.
In the Accountability Courts, the goal is to help people take ownership of their choices and improve their personal circumstances. The drug courts in Lowndes County can help people get treatment and avoid the challenges associated with traditional criminal prosecution. What can defendants expect if they qualify for drug court instead of standard criminal charges?
The system relies on intensive supervision
Drug court requires active participation by the defendant. They may need to attend one-on-one counseling sessions, group therapy and even sobriety meetings. They also typically need to routinely attend Accountability Court hearings overseen by the same judge.
They must submit to drug and alcohol testing, often as frequently as two or more times each week. Beyond that, they must also avoid any additional criminal charges while they are still actively participating in the drug court process.
Typically, drug court oversight lasts between 18 months and two years, although some cases may require more extensive intervention than others. Defendants may need assistance understanding the obligations imposed on them by the drug courts and avoiding mistakes that could make them ineligible.
For those who are eligible for drug court proceedings, supervision from the Accountability Courts can be a valuable alternative to traditional criminal prosecution. Getting experienced legal guidance with pending drug charges and the substance abuse issues that led to an arrest can help defendants determine if drug court might help them improve their situation and limit the drug-related criminal penalties they face.