According to a study, Missouri ranks third in the nation for drug abuse. Although drug charges are serious offenses, Missouri’s Drug Court Program offers drug abuse treatment as an alternative to incarceration.
What is the Drug Court Program?
The Drug Court Program is a court-supervised drug treatment program designed to help participants recover from drug abuse and make Missouri a safer community.
According to the mission statement, the program will treat all participants with respect and help them in their recovery. They acknowledge that undertaking recovery is a courageous choice that will benefit them, their families and the community as a whole.
Who is legible for the Drug Court Program?
First-time non-violent offenders, probationers and those returning from the Department of Corrections are eligible for the program.
While a judge can compel a drug offender to participate, participants may also voluntarily enter the program.
How does the program work?
The Drug Court Program is a comprehensive treatment program that includes:
- Regular Drug Court appearances
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling
- Drug testing
- Mandated employment
- Attendance to 12-step program meetings
During the program, a participant will be required to attend regular Drug Court dates. During these court dates, a Commissioner will receive an update on how the participant is progressing. The Commissioner has the jurisdiction to impose sanctions and/or terminate participants from the program if they do not follow the program’s guidelines.
Getting into the program
If you are facing drug-related charges, you may be wondering about the Drug Court Program as an alternative to incarceration. However, just because you meet the requirements for eligibility, does not guarantee placement into the program.
Talking with an attorney can help you overview all your options, including possible placement into the Drug Court Program.
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