If you have been arrested and charged with any type of crime related to drugs in Pennsylvania, you will have many questions. Among the things you should learn about is how the drug courts in Pennsylvania approach these types of cases. Drug courts can work with offenses related to illegal substances such as heroin or cocaine as well as legal substances such as prescription drugs.

The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania explains that the Commonwealth has established what is called the Pennsylvania Association of Drug Court Professionals. The purpose of this organization is to promote the creation of team-based drug courts around the state. These interdisciplinary teams are made up of professionals from the courts and law enforcement agencies as well as substance treatment experts. Defense attorneys as well as prosecution teams and judges are included in these drug court teams.

Drug courts are responsible for monitoring defendants with the goal of rehabilitation that can prevent future alleged abuse or crimes. There is supposed to be an element of support and encouragement provided to defendants as they work their way through the system. However, while this more holistic approach may sound positive, it is essential for you to remember that the drug courts are also tasked with full authority to resume prosecutions or impose sanctions. It can sometimes be the tiniest misstep that may lead to a larger problem.

You can learn more about how Pennsylvania approaches drug crime penalties and rehabilitation by visiting the substance criminal defense page of our website.