What is a drug court?

Drug courts are a type of court specialized in handling drug-related cases. They are intended to provide an alternative to traditional criminal justice proceedings for individuals who are addicted to drugs or alcohol and have been charged with drug-related crimes in North Carolina. The primary goal of drug courts is to provide an effective system of rehabilitation for substance abusers and to ultimately reduce the recidivism rate of offenders. In North Carolina, drug courts are operated locally and overseen by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts. Drug court participants are carefully screened and those accepted into the program must agree to regular drug tests, as well as meet with a treatment provider, take part in individual and group counseling sessions, complete any community service ordered by the court, and regularly attend drug court sessions. As the participants progress through the program, the court provides incentives for success as well as other services such as job training, job placement, and educational assistance. The drug court also has the authority to impose judicial sanctions when participants do not comply with program requirements. The sanctions may range from drug testing to more serious sanctions such as jail time or transfer to another treatment center. Overall, drug courts provide an opportunity for individuals who have committed drug-related crimes to receive the treatment and services they need to become productive members of society. Drug courts not only benefit those who have been charged with drug-related crimes, but also the public through reduced recidivism rates and the promotion of public safety.

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What is a drug court?

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