Most Americans recognize that addiction is a health issue and not a criminal issue. If you are addicted to cocaine, you might struggle to get clean despite your best efforts. Cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs on the market, and it can be challenging to avoid possession-related crimes if you cannot control your usage. Faced with this cycle of addiction, you might be wondering whether you can go to rehab instead of jail for cocaine-related charges in North Carolina.
Court-Ordered Rehab Programs are Only Possible for “Crimes of Addiction”
Although North Carolina has programs that allow for rehab instead of jail, they are reserved only for addicts. If your crime is not addiction-related, these programs cannot help you. An obvious “crime of addiction” would be possession of a small quantity of cocaine. You might also qualify for rehab programs if you are charged with attempting to purchase a small amount of cocaine. Possession of cocaine paraphernalia is another example of an addiction-related crime.
Adult Drug Treatment Court in North Carolina
Also known as “ADTC,” the Adult Drug Treatment Court helps addicts avoid incarceration. You can qualify if you were convicted of certain non-violent felonies or misdemeanor offenses. You must also receive probation if you want to pursue ADTC. North Carolina attempts to identify potential candidates as early as possible. This should help you avoid any incarceration if you qualify.
You may lose access to this alternative sentencing program if you fail to comply with its conditions. This type of rehab is no joke, and you must approach it in a serious manner. You will face numerous drug tests throughout the rehabilitation process. If you consume cocaine during this period, you will face prosecution like any other offender. In other words, you will lose your privileges under the ADTC.
Aside from drug tests, the ADTC also provides numerous services, including counseling, treatment, and group sessions. You will need to attend bi-weekly court sessions, and your progress will be closely monitored. If you are serious about getting clean, you shouldn’t encounter any further criminal penalties. If you fail to make progress, however, these criminal consequences could return. Note that many people who recover using this process say that drug court is “more difficult than jail.” You should also know that no one can force you to go through rehab. One of the key principles of ADTC is the preservation of due process and civil rights.
Find a Qualified Cocaine Defense Lawyer in North Carolina
North Carolina has several programs that may allow you to complete rehab instead of serving time. However, these programs are highly specific. It makes sense to consult with a defense lawyer to see whether you qualify. In addition, a cocaine defense lawyer in North Carolina can improve your chances of approval. To take your first steps toward rehab, book a consultation with Coastal South Law today.