DRUG COURT IN THE COUNTRY
Drug courts seek to halt the revolving door of addiction and arrest by linking addicted offenders to drug treatment and rigorous judicial monitoring. They bring together judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, treatment providers and court staff in a collaborative effort to enforce compliance with court orders. Drug courts also use a system of graduated rewards and sanctions to help substance abusers attain—and maintain—a drug-free life. Today, thanks to growing evidence that drug courts have reduced substance abuse and recidivism, there are over 2,147 drug courts in all 50 states.
DRUG COURT IN DC SUPERIOR COURT
The Superior Court Drug Intervention Program (AKA Drug Court) is a special court designed to handle cases involving substance-abuse defendants with non violent misdemeanor and felony charges.or others deemed eligible by the United States Attorneys Office and Drug Court Judge. The Drug Court is managed by the Pretrial Services Agency.
The program offers offenders a comprehensive approach to address their addiction. Drug Court includes supervision, drug testing, treatment services, and immediate sanctions and incentives.
Felony and misdemeanor drug courts are consolidated in one courtroom, but are treated somewhat differently.
Misdemeanor Drug Court
A defendant is eligible for drug court if charged with a misdemeanor and he meets the following
eligibility criteria:
• the defendant is charged with non-violent misdemeanors (generally all but assault, threats,
weapons offenses)
• the defendant tests positive for drugs at arrest or arraignment
• the defendant is not on probation or parole for violent misdemeanor or violent felony
• the defendant does not have a pending case involving violent misdemeanor or violent felony
• the defendant does not have previous conviction for a violent felony
• the defendant is not serving a sentence
After successful completion of SCDIP, the charges against the defendant will be dismissed by the
government.
Felony Drug Court
A defendant charged with a felony is eligible both pre- and post-adjudication of his or her case.
Pre-arraignment, the only felony cases eligible are distribution and possession with intent to
distribute a controlled substance. Pre-trial and post-adjudication, drug court is available to defendants
charged with possession with intent to distribute, distribution, theft, BRA, UUV, uttering,
forgery, receiving stolen property, fraud, and escape/prison breach. Further, to be eligible:
• the defendant must have tested positive for drugs at arrest or presentment or have a
verified history of substance abuse
• the defendant may not have any pending violent misdemeanor or violent felony charges
• the defendant may not have any prior violent felony convictions
• the defendant may not be serving a sentence
After completion of SCDIP, a defendant with a felony charge may be eligible for probation
For information regarding eligibility for drug court go to http://www.dcpsa.gov or call (202) 220-5505.