Failing a drug test while on probation is a serious matter that can worsen the criminal consequences you face. It also indicates a lack of control over alcohol or drug use that may best be addressed through a comprehensive addiction treatment program.
What Happens If You Fail A Drug Test While On Probation?
If you fail a drug test while on probation, the consequences may depend on your original sentence, how many previous failed drug tests you’ve had, and how other aspects of your probation are going. They may also depend on the state you live in. Generally, one of two things is likely to happen. Your probation officer may give you a warning that goes in your file. This may occur if it is your first offense, and you have kept up with other conditions of probation. Or, you may be required to attend a court hearing to determine if your probation should be altered or revoked. If it is revoked, you will have to serve the rest of your jail sentence unless you are able to appeal and prove that the drug test was wrong, which is unlikely. In many cases, your probation will be altered or extended. You may be given a choice to attend substance use counseling or enroll in a drug rehab program. If you refuse, it could result in more community service hours or jail time. [middle-callout]
What To Do If You Fail A Drug Test While On Probation
The opportunity to go to rehab instead of jail is presented to help people who are suffering from addiction rather than punishing them. If you are taking drugs while on probation, knowing you will be regularly tested, you may have a substance use disorder. One failed drug test could lead to more, and not dealing with the root of the problem may lead you to incur additional criminal charges related to drug use. Addiction is a disease that makes the brain crave drugs or alcohol and leads to irrational decisions like taking drugs on probation. Choosing to seek treatment can help you overcome this dependence and regain control of your life.
What Is Court-Ordered Drug Rehab?
Court-ordered drug rehab is addiction treatment that is mandated by a judge. It may consist of special programs, such as DUI or DWI classes, that address a specific violation. It could also be a comprehensive rehab program, depending on the severity of the situation and the judge’s determination. You may be required to enroll in treatment for a set length of time and find a program that includes certain aspects like substance use counseling and periodic assessments. The judge may decide whether you attend an outpatient or inpatient rehab program. Individuals who are court-ordered to seek addiction treatment may be given a list of low-cost or free state-run facilities to choose from. However, these rehab centers may not provide the best care for your personal situation and often have long waiting lists. You can choose to attend any rehab program that meets the criteria laid out by the judge.
Finding Court-Ordered Treatment
The most effective addiction treatment programs are created with the individual in mind. They take into account a person’s history of addiction and relapse, as well as the factors that led them to seek treatment. You may only be required to attend an outpatient rehab program for failing a drug test on probation. However, many people benefit from inpatient care that removes them from everyday distractions and takes the time to delve deeply into underlying issues. Vertava Health has several residential treatment facilities across the country that use a multidisciplinary approach to heal addiction. This includes behavioral therapies that help you change unhealthy thought patterns, as well as yoga, art therapy, and recreation that supports overall health. Choosing a rehab program that meets your unique needs increases your chance of avoiding future criminal offenses and breaking free from addiction for good. [inline_cta_four]
