DIRECT: A Program for Offenders With Substance Abuse Issues

Tarrant County Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer

The Drug Impact Rehabilitation Enhanced Comprehensive Treatment (DIRECT) program is designed to give nonviolent offenders the help they need to overcome drug addiction problems and become sober, law-abiding citizens.

DIRECT is very similar to the veteran’s court and mentally ill offender diversion programs also offered by Tarrant County in that any participant who successfully completes the program gets his or her original case dismissed, which later enables the participant to get an expunction and avoid the problems associated with having a permanent criminal record.

Is the DIRECT Program Limited to People Charged With Drug Offenses?

No. While the majority of the program’s participants are charged with drug offenses, individuals whose offenses are linked to their drug use may also be eligible to participate. A drug addict who steals to support his or her habit and gets caught is one fairly common example of someone who might be allowed to participate in this program, even though the actual charge is theft instead of a drug charge.

It is also worth mentioning that not everyone who has been charged with a drug offense is eligible. A charge of selling drugs, or any charge where the facts suggest the possibility of drug dealing, will almost certainly eliminate an offender from consideration.

How Does the Program Work?

If you are accepted into the program, you will promptly be scheduled into a highly structured, four-phase treatment program tailored to meet your individual needs. As part of that plan, you will most likely be expected to regularly attend Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, submit to drug testing and meet certain other conditions.

Defense You Can Rely On

Our law firm offers effective legal guidance and representation both inside and outside of the courtroom. If you are a drug addict and have been arrested or charged with a crime in the Fort Worth or Tarrant County areas of North Texas, call 817-545-3309 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with attorney David E. Cook.