Some drug and alcohol offenders in Pennsylvania may qualify for the voluntary Adult Treatment Court program in Cumberland County. Founded in 2006, this diversion program allows individuals struggling with substance use to pursue treatment while addressing their legal issues.
Review the expectations and eligibility requirements for Adult Treatment Court.
Before enrolling
Individuals facing charges of driving under the influence, drug possession or related charges can apply directly to the program or have an attorney do so on their behalf. The person must already be on probation or have active criminal charges. Participants must be willing to actively participate in the program and abide by its rules, including but not limited to daily support group meetings, treatment compliance and a curfew of 10 p.m.
During the program
Participants must undergo regular and random urine testing and attend weekly court appearances. They must also appear at probation appointments, group and individual therapy sessions, and support group meetings such as Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous. Restrictions and requirements gradually become less severe over the four phases of the treatment court program.
Most people complete the Adult Treatment Court program in 18 months. After successful completion, offenders can request expungement, reduction or dismissal of their charges. The program reports that 96% of enrollees avoid additional charges during the program and 70% permanently stay out of the criminal justice system.
Failure to complete Adult Treatment Court can result in the reinstatement of criminal penalties. Even a first-time DUI offender can receive hundreds of dollars in fines, license suspension and jail time if he or she had elevated blood alcohol content at the time of the arrest.
