Substance abuse, directly or indirectly, affects many people in the state and across the U.S. Often because they struggle with drugs, some dealing with substance abuse issues find themselves facing criminal charges.
Understanding the program may help people determine if participation may benefit them.
Program eligibility
According to the 13th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, to qualify for entry in the Hillsborough County post-adjudicatory drug court program, defendants must meet requirements, including the following:
- Wanting to participate in the program
- Not wanting to contest the criminal charges
- Currently facing a non-violent felony offense
- Having a Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet total of not more than 60
Additionally, those seeking to participate in the drug court must have a substance abuse issue.
Program participation
The county’s drug court model involves several aspects. These aspects include substance abuse treatment, frequent court case reviews, and court incentives and sanctions. As part of their participation, people often undergo drug treatment, which involves detoxification, residential care, partial-hospitalization, in-jail treatment, and outpatient and intensive outpatient programs. During the program, they may also receive or have access to other resources, including mental health counseling, criminal thinking interventions, trauma-informed services and other social services.
Program completion
According to the 13th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, successful discharge from the drug court program occurs when participants complete all the requirements of their probations. Often, this includes graduating from their treatment programs and have taken the appropriate steps to support their long-term recovery. If participants fail to comply with the terms or conditions, the drug court team may recommend termination from the program.
The drug court program may offer those facing certain criminal charges the opportunity to recover from their addictions and move forward.
