Medlin Law Firm - August 2018

Possession of 2–4 ounces of marijuana

CARE, NOT PUNISHMENT

• Possession of less than 28 grams of marijuana in a drug-free zone

Drug addiction is a problem, and the way we punish offenders isn’t helping. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states, “Drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting usually takes more than good intentions or a strong will.” A government research institute is willing to declare addiction a disease, yet our state and federal laws continue to treat those caught in its cycle with punitive rather than rehabilitative measures. But that’s changing slowly. Here in Tarrant County, alternative sentencing options exist to offer those found in possession of a controlled substance a second chance. While limited in scope, there are two programs that exist to help those battling addiction get themselves and their records clean. These are the First Offender Drug Program and the DIRECT Court Program. First Offender Drug Program As the name suggests, this program only applies to first-time, nonviolent offenders. Those who qualify will be placed in a limited supervision regimen where participants are required to undergo twice-monthly drug screenings and attend a short-term course on chemical dependency. After 90 days, if you have not relapsed, your case will be dismissed, keeping your record clean.

Forging or altering a drug prescription

Possession of a dangerous drug

Diversion of a controlled substance

DIRECTCourt Program The Drug Impact Rehabilitation Enhanced Comprehensive Treatment Program is an intensive probation period available to nonviolent offenders, regardless of whether this is their first offence. While in the DIRECT program, you will be placed in a structured treatment program tailored to your needs while monitored by supervision officers. Both these programs provide brighter avenues for those facing nonviolent drug charges. Having worked with countless clients battling the scourge of addiction, we can onlyhopemoremeasures that place education and rehabilitation above punishment will come to fruition across the state and the country. If you or a loved one is facing a nonviolent drug charge, we can help you explore these viable avenues for rehabilitation. Our law office can also put you in contact with further resources to help you find the care you need.

First offenders for the following crimes may qualify:

• Possession of less than a gram of a controlled substance

Possession of 1–4 grams of a drug

Summer Grilled HALIBUT

Brain Buster

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless halibut fillets, about 5 ounces each 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

1/2 cup hearts of palm, drained

1 lemon

2 pounds mixed tomatoes, sliced

Basil leaves, for garnish

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Lightly oil grill grates and heat grill to medium. 2. Grate 1 teaspoon lemon zest onto halibut fillets. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. 3. Grill halibut, turning just once, for about 5 minutes on each side. 4. In a mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, hearts of palm, juice from lemon, and oil. Season with salt and pepper. 5. Garnish salad with basil. Spoon salad over grilled halibut. Serve.

Inspired by Bon Appetit magazine

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