Could drug court keep you out of jail or prison?

Many Connecticut drug offenders wind up behind bars because their substance dependencies make them act in ways they otherwise would not. If you count yourself among them, you may want to see if you are an eligible candidate for drug court. Drug courts have several objectives. Primarily, they seek to hold drug offenders accountable for their actions while giving them the tools, the means and the accountability they need to overcome their substance dependences.

Per the Connecticut Judicial Branch, you may be able to enroll in drug court if you are facing a drug-related charge that is not violent in nature. You also need to acknowledge that you have a substance dependency and show a desire to overcome it.

How drug court works

If you gain entry into a Connecticut drug court, you must remain in the program for somewhere in the range of 12 to 15 months. During that time, you must undergo regular drug testing and make regular appearances before a judge. You may also have to participate in substance abuse classes or career training programs as part of your enrollment.

What happens after drug court

If you complete your drug court program successfully, it often has a positive impact on your case. For example, your original jail or prison sentence may undergo suspension, resulting in you not having to serve any time behind bars.

While drug court may give you a means to a better result in your case, it may also help you overcome your dependency and make other positive changes in your life moving forward.