The impacts of drug and alcohol addiction are far-reaching, affecting not only the person suffering from addiction but their friends, family, and even society as a whole. People suffering from addiction are more likely to encounter legal problems than the general public because they are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviors. Finding yourself involved with the police, the court system, or Child Protective Services resulting from your substance use can be frightening.
Spokane Falls Recovery Center is a recognized DUI assessment and treatment provider offering court-ordered treatment and legal services in Washington state. You can find the help you need today by calling 844.962.2775.
Information About Court-Ordered Addiction Treatment
For a long time, people who suffered from substance use disorders were viewed as being morally corrupt. Thankfully, we now understand addiction for what it is: a disease that affects millions of people from all walks of life. With this understanding, courts now more frequently look to treatment options instead of incarceration for nonviolent, substance-abuse-related crimes.
Alcohol and drug addiction often lead people to commit crimes in the pursuit of drugs or while under the influence. Common drug- and alcohol-related crimes are driving under the influence (DWI), theft, domestic violence, and child abuse or neglect. Research indicates that nearly 80% of crimes that lead to incarceration are related to drug and alcohol addiction. Incarceration does not address the underlying issue of addiction. Statistics for repeat offenders are grim. Sentencing someone to court-ordered treatment offers the opportunity to treat the addiction and prevent future criminal activity.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, your court-ordered treatment begins with a thorough drug and alcohol assessment. If we determine that a substance use disorder exists, we will work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan. We offer a variety of treatment options, including:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient treatment program (IOP)
- Outpatient treatment program (OP)
- Co-occurring capable disorders treatment
Opponents of court-ordered treatment argue that it lets people “off the hook” for their crimes. In reality, it addresses the root of the problem and helps break the cycle of addiction and recidivism. Further, the person ordered to treatment is responsible for paying for their treatment, whereas incarceration costs us all.
Meeting the Criteria for Court-Ordered Treatment
Not everyone is eligible for court-ordered treatment. There is a screening process to determine eligibility. Suppose it is determined that you suffer from a substance use disorder and that your crime resulted from this. In that case, a hearing will be scheduled where a judge will make the final decision between court-ordered treatment or incarceration. If you have previously attended court-ordered treatment, you will not be eligible to do so again. Additionally, those who commit violent crimes will not be considered for court-ordered treatment.
If ordered to undergo treatment, you will have a treatment team made up of a judge, lawyers, therapists, and case managers who will develop an appropriate treatment plan and ensure that you remain compliant with your treatment. Some of the criteria you may have to meet include:
- Attend alcohol rehab or addiction treatment for as long as ordered to do so
- Maintain complete abstinence from alcohol and drugs
- Submit to random alcohol and drug testing
- Complete court-ordered community service
- Supply scheduled updates to court-appointed officials
Failing to adhere to all aspects of your court-ordered treatment will result in having to face prosecution for your crime. If convicted, you will be responsible for paying all court fees and applicable fines and serving out any jail time. However, successful completion of your court-ordered treatment will result in all charges being dropped, leaving you with a clean record.
Contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center for Court-Ordered Treatment and Legal Support in Washington
Many people who commit crimes do so as a result of a substance use disorder. Unlike incarceration, court-ordered rehab is an effective way to treat alcohol and drug abuse or addiction. If you or a loved one faces legal issues stemming from drug or alcohol use, help is available. Reach out to Spokane Falls Recovery Center online or by calling 844.962.2775 to learn more.
