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Painkiller addiction is a root cause for many common drug charges

On Behalf of | Feb 27, 2020 | Criminal Defense |

For the average person in North Carolina dealing with a painkiller addiction, the problem most likely started with an illness, injury or surgery. Pain can impact someone’s health and ability to recover, which is why pain management is such a critical area of modern medicine. Unfortunately, for some people, dependence on opioid medications can quickly develop.

When the doctor withdraws pain medication, that person might not be able to function without it. Opioid use disorder can lead people to steal medication from others, buy pills on the unregulated market or even turn to street drugs such as heroin for relief from the symptoms of their addiction. Criminal drug charges could result, with potentially life-altering consequences.

North Carolina Drug Treatment Courts can offer a chance for rehabilitation

Some counties in North Carolina have what is known as a drug treatment court.  Drug Treatment Court (DTC) is an alternative for some who have been charged with drug crimes. The goal of this court is not traditional prosecution, but instead to help people recover from opioid use disorder and other addictions by allowing them an alternative to criminal charges and incarceration. Instead of going to prison or being placed on probation, those facing nonviolent offenses related to addiction can potentially seek court-ordered treatment.

Repeat offenders struggling with addiction to drugs or even alcohol can ask for consideration from the DTC instead of going through the regular criminal system. Individuals must meet certain criteria, such as having strong professional or family ties to their local community and otherwise being an upstanding citizen prior to their addiction to qualify for DTC.

Provided you comply with all requirements and successfully complete the program, DTC may allow you to avoid prison and a criminal record while simultaneously undergoing treatment for the addiction that has had such a negative impact on your life. Find out more about your options today by speaking with an experienced Forsyth County drug crimes attorney today.

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