Rhode Island Adult Drug Court

Drug addiction.  It is a problem that many of us are confronted with on a daily basis. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, the unrelenting stress of our daily lives, or simple curiosity, drug addiction can force people to make life altering decisions.  Luckily, programs like Rhode Island’s Adult Drug Court can give those battling addiction a second chance at a clean slate.  If you have been charged with a non-violent felony in Rhode Island and are fighting drug addiction, the Adult Drug Court is an invaluable resource.

First established in 2002, the Adult Drug Court gives non-violent felony offenders the opportunity to address their addiction and reduce their exposure to the criminal justice system. With a focus on substance abuse counseling, Adult Drug Court seeks to rehabilitate individuals burdened by drug addiction hopefully reducing the likelihood of recidivism.To be eligible for Adult Drug Court you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be an adult residing in Rhode Island
• You must be charged with a drug or alcohol offense (excluding DUI), or another nonviolent offense stemming from drug addiction
• You must demonstrate a history of alcohol or drug dependence 
• You cannot have any pending charges or prior convictions involving a felony crime of violence
• You cannot have any pending charges or prior convictions involving deliver of a controlled substance or possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance
• Willingness to enter a plea of nolo contendere

After an intensive application and screening process, individuals admitted to Adult Drug Court must complete twelve to fifteen months of substance abuse counseling. During this time, individuals are subject to frequent and random drug screens as well as frequent reviews by the court. While involved in the program, participants cannot use alcohol or medical marijuana and can be removed from the program for failing to remain clean and sober.

Upon successful completion of the Adult Drug Court program, participants are eligible to have their charges dismissed and their records sealed. This result allows individuals to resume their education, maintain their employment, build stronger relationships with their family, and move forward in life without the stigma of a felony charge on their record.

Unfortunately, too few people are familiar with the Adult Drug Court in Rhode Island and are unaware of its benefits both from a legal standpoint and a healthcare standpoint. If you believe you are eligible for Adult Drug Court, contact the experienced attorneys at Abilheira Law. We can guide you through the referral process and represent your interests throughout the Adult Drug Court program. For more information on the referral process and Adult Drug Court contract, visit the Rhode Island Judiciary Website.