Can Drug and Alcohol Treatment Help My Criminal Case?
May 13, 2021
Understanding the Impact of Addiction Treatment on Legal Outcomes
Many criminal behaviors are often driven or influenced by underlying issues with drug or alcohol addiction. In numerous cases, if individuals had sought help for their addiction earlier, the crimes committed could potentially have been avoided. However, even after facing criminal charges, seeking treatment can significantly improve the outcomes of legal cases.
Exploring Treatment Options
When it comes to addressing drug or alcohol addiction, treatment programs are generally categorized into two main types:
1. Outpatient Treatment:
Outpatient programs are considered less invasive and allow individuals to continue living at home while attending treatment sessions at a local center for 9 to 12 hours per week, which can extend up to six months depending on the specific program. These sessions are typically conducted in a group setting led by a counselor or therapist who assists participants in addressing their underlying issues and provides support and information regarding their addiction. Outpatient treatment is particularly suited for individuals with less severe addiction issues. Completing an outpatient program can be beneficial, especially if the individual might not contest their charges at trial. Documentation such as a letter of completion from an outpatient program can significantly mitigate the penalties associated with the crime(s) charged.
2. Inpatient Treatment:
This form of treatment is more intensive than outpatient care and generally requires individuals to stay at a treatment facility for a minimum of 28 days. Inpatient care includes daily therapy sessions, which may involve individual counseling or group therapy. The U.S. hosts a wide array of inpatient facilities, each differing in approach and methodology. Successfully completing an inpatient program often holds considerable weight in court due to the intensive level of care provided. Moreover, Pennsylvania courts frequently allow time spent in inpatient treatment to count towards jail time. This can mean that an individual, who might otherwise face imprisonment, could serve much or all of their sentence in a treatment facility, which is typically a more conducive environment for rehabilitation than prison.
Considerations Before Choosing a Treatment Path
The decision to enter a treatment program should not be taken lightly. It is crucial to discuss all options with your attorney, doctors, and family members before making a decision. It's important to recognize that not everyone requires formal treatment, and entering these programs solely to curry favor with the courts can backfire if the individual is not genuinely committed or discontinues attendance.
At our firm, we often advise clients to consider treatment, but the ultimate decision rests with the client. Engaging sincerely in a treatment program not only aids in personal health and recovery but can also have a profoundly positive impact on the legal proceedings of a criminal case.
Who Can I Contact Regarding Drug-Related Offenses?
At The Town Law, We Understand Just how Stressful Facing Criminal Charges Can Be. with Our Vast Experience Handling Criminal Cases Throughout Bucks County, Delaware County, Chester County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County in Pennsylvania, We Are Well-Equipped to Ensure You Get the Best Result Possible with Attentive Attorneys by Your Side Throughout the Process. Contact Our Firm today for A Free Consultation. Our Staff of Experienced Attorneys is Dedicated to The Best Outcomes for All of Our Clients.