North Carolina has established several recovery courts designed to help offenders who struggle with substance abuse and related issues. Often, individuals who qualify can obtain expungement or dismissal of charges after successful program completion.
Review the eligibility requirements for the various recovery court programs in North Carolina.
Adult Drug Treatment Court
This program, available in Forsyth County, provides intensive substance use treatment to help offenders achieve a healthy, productive, crime-free lifestyle. Eligible individuals must have a diagnosis of substance use disorder and multiple nonviolent drug or alcohol-related convictions. Program participants must be at least 18 years old and currently have pending charges that could result in jail time.
Youth Drug Treatment Court
Forsyth County is one of three North Carolina counties that has a Youth Drug Treatment Court for underage offenders. Children who participate in the program have a diagnosed substance use disorder that causes problems at home and school, including truancy, juvenile delinquency and criminal offenses. Because a significant need for this program exists in the state, North Carolina grants priority enrollment to youth who are homeless, have a physical disability, are involved in the social services system, are deaf or have parents who receive substance use treatment services.
Mental Health Court
Some individuals may be eligible for Forsyth County Mental Health Court when facing criminal charges. This program helps repeat adult offenders access mental health services and intensive care, with the goal of improving the ability to function in the community and avoid future jail time. Offenders can qualify with repeat criminal convictions along with mental health diagnosis or treatment history. The district attorney will confirm that program participants do not create a concern for public safety. North Carolina gives priority enrollment to individuals who struggle with severe, persistent mental illness.
Each county treatment court has specific enrollment and completion requirements. Individuals or their attorneys can ask for intervention after an arrest. Those who qualify will receive an individualized treatment program targeted to their specific clinical, mental health and support needs