Many people who are arrested on drug charges in Virginia get a sentence that includes fines and jail time. But there have been questions about incarceration. Some have even gone so far as to claim that it does not really change the amount of drug crime that occurs in the country, so different approaches are needed.
This basic idea has led to the formation of drug treatment courts for adults. These courts set up a program, generally lasting for 12 to 18 months. Those who are within the program get support and various services, as well as being subjected to close observation and supervision. Many restrictions are put on their lives, starting with the fact that they can no longer use drugs and alcohol, and that they get treatment for addiction or abuse issues.
The potential benefits
The goal of these programs is to address the fact that many drug offenders are actually dealing with addiction. Incarceration does not help because they do not get treatment, so they reoffend when they get out.
But the main benefit of these programs for the individual is that they get to combat the actual addiction that has driven the criminal behavior. Upon completing the program, the hope is that they will not reoffend because that cycle will be broken.
Additionally, nonviolent offenders who are eligible for the program may be able to get a vastly reduced sentence if they complete it successfully. Someone may have to spend time on probation and, as noted above, spend up to 18 months completing the program. But in exchange, they may not have to spend any time behind bars.
Considering your options
Not everyone is eligible for the drug court program, and there is no guarantee that it will be successful, even for those who are. But it does address drug-related criminal issues in a different fashion than standard incarceration, and that helps to show why it is so important for those facing charges to understand exactly what legal options they have.