Drug Treatment As An Alternative To Jail
For some people, drug experimentation turns to addiction. For others, they could be arrested the first time they use. No matter what, an arrest for drug possession can have disastrous consequences for your life.
For more than 40 years, Whitestone Young, PC, has built a reputation in Fairfax and across Northern Virginia for skilled, effective criminal defense solutions. One of the ways our attorneys serve our clients is helping them seek treatment as opposed to sitting behind bars.
Who Qualifies For Drug Treatment?
Virginia’s “251 diversion” program is for people facing first-time drug possession charges. Lawmakers created the program because they correctly recognized that helping people get treatment will benefit them and society more rather than just sending people to jail, even if they need help.
How Does A 251 Diversion Work?
With this program, you will need to complete certain conditions over a period of time (typically one or two years for a felony arrest and six months for a misdemeanor arrest). If you successfully complete the program, a judge will dismiss the charges. Failure will result in a guilty verdict and a harsher sentence.
These steps include:
- Maintaining good behavior and avoiding arrest during the length of the program
- Completing a drug treatment program or class
- Performing community service of at least 100 hours for a felony charge or at least 24 hours for a misdemeanor charge
One thing to note is that even after the charge is dismissed, you will not be able to expunge this arrest from your record. However, successfully completing the 251 diversion will show your dedication to moving on from your arrest in a positive way.
We have helped thousands of other people enter and complete the 251 diversion program or resolve drug charges in other ways. That is why we recommend you speak with us before making any decisions. You may have a strong defense that could lead to the charges being dismissed or you being found not guilty and expunging the arrest.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With An Experienced Lawyer
To learn more, we invite you to contact Whitestone Young as soon as possible after your arrest. Contact our office in Fairfax via email or by calling 703-591-0200.