Are there Any Alternatives to Incarceration for Drug Offenders in Pennsylvania?
Are you facing a drug charge in Harrisburg or elsewhere in Dauphin County? It is normal to feel stressed out. You may be wondering: **Is there any alternative to jail for drug offenses in Pennsylvania? **The answer is ‘yes’—though you need to be prepared to take a proactive approach to access the best available alternatives. Here, our drug defense lawyer in Harrisburg provides an overview of the potential alternatives to incarceration for drug offenders in Pennsylvania.
Be Prepared: Incarceration is a Risk for a Drug Crime in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, incarceration is a potential consequence of being convicted of a drug crime, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Defendants should understand that even first-time offenders can face jail time, particularly for drug distribution or drug trafficking charges. With that in mind, all drug crime allegations should be taken seriously.
Know the Alternatives to Jail for Drug Offenses
There is some good news for the accused: There are some alternative options available for those facing drug-related criminal charges in Harrisburg. Indeed, the United States Sentencing Commission (USSC) explains Pennsylvania offers certain programs to people “who would otherwise be incarcerated.” Here is an overview of the potential alternatives:
- Drug Treatment Court Programs: Pennsylvania offers specialized drug courts that are focused on helping offenders recover from addiction while avoiding incarceration. For those eligible, participation requires compliance with court-supervised treatment plans, including regular drug testing and counseling. Treatment is an alternative to jail time. Successful completion of the program can result in reduced charges or the dismissal of the case.
- Probation with Treatment Requirements: In some cases, the court may impose probation with mandatory participation in substance abuse treatment programs instead of incarceration. With this type of alternative, the offender must also meet specific conditions, such as attending therapy sessions, submitting to drug testing, and refraining from further criminal activity. Failure to meet any conditions could result in the revocation of probation.
- Pre-Trial Diversion: Pre-trial diversion programs are available to certain eligible offenders. Most often, this alternative path from jail is offered to people facing first-time or otherwise low-level drug charges. The pre-trial diversion program also generally requires offenders to complete treatment. Other requirements may include community service and/or educational classes. If successfully completed, the drug charges may be dismissed.
What option is available in your specific drug case? The answer depends on the specific circumstances. A top-tier Harrisburg drug offense defense attorney can review the charges, the evidence, your record, and help you determine the best alternative to incarceration.
Contact Our Harrisburg Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg drug crimes defense attorney has the professional expertise that you can trust in complex cases. If you have any questions or concerns about drug offenses, please do not hesitate to contact us today. From our Harrisburg law office, we handle all types of drug-related offenses in Dauphin County and all across Central Pennsylvania.