Alternatives to Jail

If you are accused of a Washington drug crime, you may qualify for several jail alternative programs. Generally, these alternatives focus on rehabilitation for drug addiction rather than incarceration, offering the opportunity to receive treatment and potentially have your charges dismissed.

Drug Court Programs

Some courts in Washington operate "drug court" programs. Within Washington State, drug courts operate in King, Pierce, Spokane, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Kitsap, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Whatcom, and Yakima counties. Drug courts are pre-sentencing programs that offer the opportunity to receive drug treatment instead of jail time, with potential case dismissal upon successful completion.

Program Requirements

Participants must meet specific eligibility criteria established by the court. Once admitted, participants are required to:

• Attend drug treatment programs
• Undergo random urinalysis testing
• Appear before the judge regularly

Upon fulfilling all program commitments and meeting requirements, the charges are dismissed. However, non-compliance results in program termination and sentencing on the original charges.

Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA)

The Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA) is a post-sentencing program that can reduce your incarceration time by up to 50%. DOSA works by converting the remaining portion of your jail sentence to Community Supervision and outpatient treatment monitoring, allowing the second half of your sentence to be served outside of custody.

How We Can Help

• Evaluating your eligibility for drug court, DOSA, and other alternative programs
• Negotiating jail alternatives as part of plea agreements
• Presenting compelling arguments for alternative sentencing at hearings
• Coordinating with treatment providers and monitoring programs

Contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today for a consultation. Our attorneys will evaluate your case and fight to keep you out of jail so you can focus on treatment and recovery.