Louisiana Adult Drug Court Lawyer

What is the Louisiana Drug Court?

The Louisiana Drug Court was established to reduce the number of people having their probation revoked due to repeat drug offenses. By design, the drug court handles cases that involve drug offenders facing less serious charges. If accepted into the drug court program, those charged with drug offenses are eligible to receive treatment that includes counseling, supervision, and educational opportunities instead of possible incarceration.

In the state of Louisiana, the drug court has seen successful results because, instead of simply penalizing an offender, it addresses the issue they’re facing and provides the help they may not otherwise seek. In addition to providing much-needed help to those facing issues of substance abuse and drug addiction, drug court also saves the taxpayers money by reducing resources used by repeat offenders.

Who is Eligible for Drug Court?

Drug court is an extraordinary opportunity for those who are eligible to participate. Unfortunately, however, to take advantage of the program there are specific requirements one must meet. Requirements for Louisiana drug court include:

• Must be at least 17 years old
• Must not be a sex offender
• No prior felony convictions
• The charge at hand cannot be a crime of violence
• The charge at hand cannot be a DWI that resulted in death
• The charge must not be one of multiple counts of, manufacturing, production or cultivation of illegal substances
• The court must have reason to believe the individual suffers from substance abuse issues

If a person meets all these criteria and does not have limitations that create difficulty for participating in the program such as limited access to transportation, mental health issues, or a medical condition that requires the use of mood-altering substances, they can participate in the drug court program.

The Four Phases of Louisiana Drug Court

Louisiana drug court is broken into four phases that a participant must complete to graduate from the program. Each phase is rigorous and strategically designed to create outcomes that benefit the participant and the community.

PHASE I: An eight-week session designed to discontinue drug use and stabilize health. Consists of joining AA or NA and requires regular drug screenings.

PHASE II: A 4-6 month session designed to remain drug-free and maintain employment. Consists of intensive group therapy and individual counseling as well as AA or NA and regular drug screenings.

PHASE III: A 3-6 month session designed to remain drug-free, obtain an education, and create an aftercare plan. Consists of intensive group therapy, individual counseling, and regular AA or NA attendance.

PHASE IV: A six-month session designed to support an independent lifestyle. Consists of intensive supervision, community monitoring, and random drug/alcohol screenings.

Throughout each phase of the drug court program, participants are required to make regular court appearances and face possible penalties if they’re not in compliance with program rules.