In California, there are 217 “problem-solving” courts. Many are Proposition 36 courts that treat non-violent but severely addicted drug offenders. Other courts are drug treatment courts for juvenile, parents in dependency court, and regular drug treatment court.

The idea behind these specialty courts was to “use the trauma of the moment to move individuals caught up into the system into treatment in hopes of breaking the addiction and transitioning them toward a less dangerous existence” reports California’s Daily Journal. However, such courts are not necessarily all they’re cracked out to be.

Reports indicate that money poured into these specialty courts could be used to prevent drug use and treat substance abusers before a crime is committed. Moreover, Prosecutors often offer “deals” to get drug abusers into these programs by offering the program in exchange for a guilty plea to a felony charge. However, upon completion of the program the felony often remains on the defendant’s record.

It is important to contact a criminal defense attorney who can provide clarity in terms of your rights under the Constitution and in Drug Treatment Courts. If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime in California, contact the experienced Southern California drug crime defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich today at 1-888-280-6839 or www.wklaw.com for a consultation of your case. We can help you.