Drug courts are special courts that allow first-time or low-level offenders the chance to avoid a conviction for a drug charge. They use rehabilitation and monitoring to help a person change habits and alter their lives for the better.
According to the Oklahoma City website, the state does have drug courts. All courts use comprehensive plans to help offenders avoid convictions.
Types of services
The drug court will develop a plan for you if you are under prosecution. Your plan may include treatment programs, drug testing, counseling and employment provisions. You will have to agree to meet all requirements of your plan if you wish to stay in drug court and avoid going to the traditional court where you could face a conviction.
Control
Control over the drug court is a combined effort of many different departments within the criminal justice system. Probation, administration, corrections, legal and counseling services work together to ensure you get the help you need to succeed in your plan.
Application
You must apply to drug court. Your admission is not guaranteed. You must complete an application and agree to all conditions of the court. It is a very intensive program, and you must be willing to follow all rules set for you by all participating services and departments.
If you successfully pass drug court, you can have the judge drop your charges. You get to avoid a criminal record, while also helping yourself to overcome the obstacles in your life that led you to drug court in the first place. It is a beneficial option if you are willing to work hard to change your life.