Alabama has some of the nation’s strictest drug possession laws. Many such offenses result in felony charges, which may carry jail time.
Review the possible penalties for an Alabama drug possession conviction before facing this type of court date.
Penalties for felony drug convictions
Alabama categorizes most drug possession cases as Class C felonies. These convictions carry a minimum of one year and up to 10 years in prison. Generally, the length of your sentence will depend on the circumstances of your case. The court will look at the type of substance, the amount, the location at the time of possession, your prior criminal history and whether evidence exists of intent to distribute.
Available diversion programs
Alabama has several adult drug court programs designed to provide rehabilitation. If you have a substance use disorder and commit a nonviolent felony drug offense, you may be able to avoid prison time by successfully completing drug court.
In Mobile County, the drug court program lasts 12 months. During this time, you must attend therapy and addiction treatment as indicated by the program health care team, pay all legal and court fees associated with your case, and comply with court appearance and drug testing requirements.
Mobile County also has a specific diversion program for veterans facing certain felony and misdemeanor charges. The state strives to get these service members into rehabilitation programs and keep them out of the prison population.
Requesting information about diversion programs may positively impact your future if you struggle with addiction. The Community Corrections Program administers drug court in Mobile.