The Court has a drug testing program.
The primary purpose of testing for juveniles is to identify those
for whom interventions are needed to help them stop using illicit
substances. Without such interventions, many are unable to end
their substance abuse and may progress to more serious levels
of addiction and to crime. Having an impact on delinquent behavior
is also difficult without substance abuse interventions. The benefits
of drug testing are as follows:
1. Identify youth who recently
used illicit drugs.
2. To request further alcohol and other drug assessments.
3. To make recommendations for court dispositions.
4. To notify parents of a youth's drug involvement.
5. To develop treatment plans for youth.
6. To make referrals to appropriate treatment agencies.
Specifically, all children who
are detained are required to have a medical evaluation if accused,
suspected or appear to have used illegal drugs recently. Children
who are under supervision of the Court are required to have (and
pay for) random drug screens administered by the Court staff.
Also, when appropriate, parents may be required to also have drug
screens on a regular or random interval.
For additional information:
Drug
Testing in Juvenile Courts
