Facing a drug charge is stressful. Not knowing what will happen next can make it even worse. This is especially scary for people facing drug charges for the first time. Those facing this situation should know it’s normal to feel anxious. To help them understand what might happen, here are some possible outcomes after a first-time drug charge.
Conditional discharge
First-time offenders might be able to get conditional discharge under North Carolina law. This usually means the person has to plead guilty or no contest. Then, they will have a period of probation, usually between 12 and 24 months. During this time, they will need to follow certain rules.
These rules often include finishing a state-approved drug education program and taking regular drug tests. If they meet all these requirements, the court will dismiss their charges. They may even be eligible for expunction.
Probation
If someone doesn’t get a conditional discharge, or if their offense doesn’t qualify, probation is another possible outcome for first-time drug offenses. Probation usually lasts from one to three years. The judge may require some or all of these conditions:
- Meet regularly with a probation officer
- Go to drug treatment programs like NA or AA (if needed)
- Take random drug tests
- Do community service (the number of hours depends on the offense)
- Follow a curfew (if required)
- Take a drug education course
It’s important for someone on probation to follow all the rules to avoid more serious penalties. The exact rules depend on what they were charged with, if they have a criminal history and other facts about their case.
Criminal record
A drug conviction creates a public record. This can cause problems in many parts of a person’s life. For example, employers might see it on background checks, which can make it harder to get a job. It can also make it harder to rent a home, get a loan, buy a gun or have a good outcome in child custody cases.
For those facing drug charges for the first time, consider seeking a legal professional for case assistance.