What is the First Offender Program?
If a person has no prior convictions for any drug offense, adult or juvenile (including marijuana), they may be treated under this Program. It only applies to Possession cases, not Possession with Intent to Distribute cases. A judge can find the evidence sufficient to support a guilty verdict, but continue the case, place the person on Probation, order drug treatment, counseling, and may require Community Service. If the program is successfully completed, the charge will be dismissed. Failure to successfully complete the First Offender Program will result in conviction and possible jail or prison. Q: Will I lose my Driver’s License if I am found guilty of a Drug Offense or treated as a First Offender? A: Yes, for six months. If you have a valid license when sentenced, the Judge can authorize a Restricted License for driving at certain times and conditions. If your license is already suspended, the six months is added to the existing time. The Judge will consider a Restricted License if
