NCJ Number
110784
Date Published
1986
Length
19 pages
Annotation
All 50 States and the Federal Government have laws prohibiting the possession, cultivation, sale, and even use of certain drugs, such as marijuana, heroin, and cocaine.
Abstract
Laws and penalties vary depending on the drug and from State to State. Although in 1980 there were 580,900 arrests on drug charges, the probability of being arrested is relatively low. Police have several informal options for dealing with juvenile drug offenders ranging from reprimand to various adjustment. Formal handling of juveniles begins with the filing of a court petition and an intake hearing. At the hearing the case may be dismissed, an informal judgment may be rendered (e.g., informal probation, treatment), or an inquiry before a judge may be authorized. In the last, the case proceeds to an adjudication and disposition hearing. Throughout the process there is much leeway for discretion, and actual handling of the case will vary by locale, type of drug use, and prior juvenile record. In certain jurisdictions, juveniles may be waived to adult court. Penalties may range from a fine or probation for a first offense to residential placement. Diversion also is an option. Most drug cases are handled through plea bargaining. For cases handled in criminal court, the procedures include arrest, booking, initial appearance, preliminary hearing, determination of formal charges, arraignment, trial, sentencing, appeal, and release. 8 notes.