An individual’s case will be reviewed by the District Attorney’s office once the offense has been committed to ascertain if the individual meets the qualifications for the program.

Once the case is approved, the District Court will send a letter offering participation in the program. At the Preliminary Hearing, the individual will inform the Magisterial District Judge of his or her decision to accept the program.

The program requires the participant to:

• Maintain abstinence from substances and not occur a new offense
• Be assessed for treatment
  
• Engage in treatment if recommended or attend a Decision Making session if treatment is not recommended
  
• Be monitored by a TASC Case Manager for the duration of the program
  
• Attend status hearings with the Magisterial District Judge at approximate 30 day intervals until completion

Depending on the substance, the length of the program could be anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

Once the participant completes the requirements (which include court costs), the charges are dismissed at the District Court and can be expunged.

Yes, the program is voluntary.

The case will be scheduled for a hearing and will proceed through the other avenues of the Criminal Justice system.

Yes, Drug Court accepts individuals on Medication Assisted Treatment through an approved provider.

In phase 1, a participant must appear weekly in court. In phase 2, the individual appears every other week. In phase 3 and 4, he or she appears once a month.