Drug Courts are voluntary programs for offenders charged with or convicted of drug and drug-related crimes. An alternative to regular criminal adjudication, Drug Court teams typically consist of a judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, probation officer, and a treatment provider who collaborate to design appropriate treatment and counseling, as well as incentives and sanctions to reduce the offender’s dependency on illicit drugs and recidivism. The Drug Courts follow the ten key components of Drug Court established by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals, which follow Evidence Based Principles. Eligibility for Drug Court varies depending on the requirements and restrictions of the program. Navajo County’s Drug Court follows a post-adjudication procedure in which offenders enter the program after pleading guilty. Individuals now on probation, then are given opportunities to utilize drug treatment services, such as counseling and education. Offenders also must abide by certain rules, such as abstaining from drugs and alcohol and obeying any other prohibitions ordered by the judge.
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