What are Court Ordered Drug Tests?

If you are convicted of a crime in Jacksonville, or anywhere in the state of Florida, it is important to know all of the consequences you may face. Unfortunately, even once you’ve done your time in prison and paid your debt to society, you may still face a lengthy probation period. During this probation, the courts require you to remain crime free and drug free. Court ordered drug tests are almost always a condition of parole and probation in Florida. Florida probation officers meet regularly with their parolees or probationers and administer drug tests to ensure compliance.

What is Drug Offender Probation?

The Florida Department of Correctionsmanages one of the largest drug testing programs in the United States. If you were convicted of certain drug or alcohol crimes, however, you may be required to be on Drug Offender Probation. This is a more comprehensive and tightly supervised probation that often includes mandatory drug treatment programs, as well as testing. Offenders in this program must adhere to normal probation requirements, as well as other court ordered conditions.

The Florida Department of Corrections uses many different methods to test for drug use in this program. However, one of the most effective methods in on-site testing. On-site drug testing allows the probation officer to view the results immediately and address any violations or concerns. In some situations, officers may make arrests if offenders have violated the terms of their probation.

What Happens If You Fail Your Court Ordered Drug Test?

Being on probation is something that should be taken very seriously. Law enforcement officials and judges do not look favorably on individuals who break the terms of their probation. Being charged with a violation of probation is a very serious offense. When a probation officer gets a positive drug test, the state of Florida may accuse you of violating your probation and a bench warrant may be filed for your arrest.

If you’ve failed your drug test, your supervising probation officer will submit an Affidavit of Violation the courts. The courts will then review the allegation and the test results to determine if there are reasonable grounds for your arrest. If so, you will then be arrested and a date for a hearing will be set.

To establish a violation of probation, however, the court must meet a minimum standard of proof. To do this they must show evidence that you violated the terms of your probation. In Florida, evidence of a violation of probation is typically a failed drug test or the failure to complete court ordered drug treatment program or counseling.

Are You on Probation in Jacksonville?

At Lockett Law, our Jacksonville criminal defense attorneys know that the consequences of a criminal conviction don’t end when you get out of jail. Probation is a very serious matter and you are required to remain drug-free and crime-free throughout your probation period. One small misstep could land you back in prison and with enhanced penalties and consequences. At Lockett Law, we can help you every step of the way – even during your probation. Call us today at (904) 441-5107 or simply contact us online by filling out our confidential contact form. We are ready to fight for your rights and your future.

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