Should My Child Take a Drug Test Before Their Possession Court Date?

If your child is facing drug possession charges in Cobb County, metro Atlanta, or North Georgia, you may be wondering whether they should take a drug test before their court date. Our team helps people in their teens and twenties navigate the criminal justice system, and this question comes up frequently. Here’s what you need to know about drug testing and court appearances.

Drug Testing Before Court: What Parents Need to Know

When your child is charged with drug possession, it’s natural to worry about every aspect of their case. Many parents wonder if having a clean drug test before court will help their case or if courts will require testing during proceedings.

Understanding how drug testing works in the local court system can help you and your child make better decisions as you navigate this challenging time.

Are Drug Tests Required at Arraignment in Cobb County?

In most cases, the odds of your child being drug tested at arraignment in Cobb County are extremely low. Arraignments typically focus on:

• Formally reading the charges
• Entering an initial plea
• Discussing representation
• Setting future court dates

Drug testing is not a standard part of this process for most defendants. However, there are exceptions to be aware of.

When Drug Testing Might Be Required

While uncommon at arraignment, there are situations where drug testing may come into play:

1. Bond Conditions: If “random drug and alcohol testing” was checked as a condition of your child’s bond, they may be subject to testing at some point. This could occur at the arraignment itself.
2. Pretrial Supervision: Some defendants may be placed under pretrial supervision that includes random drug testing as a condition of remaining out of custody.
3. Diversion Programs: If your child is considering a diversion program, drug testing will likely be a component of participation.

Making the Right Decision for Your Child’s Case

Whether your child should voluntarily take a drug test before court depends on several factors. Every drug possession case is unique.

The right strategy depends on:

1. Your child’s specific circumstances
2. The nature of their charges
3. Their history with the court system
4. Your legal team’s assessment of their case

At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, our approach to defending your child’s charges entirely depends on their goals.

While some law firms tell you they have one way of handling every case, we don’t do that. The strategy developed for your child’s case must align with their short-term and long-term goals.

If we determine it makes sense for your family and our team to work together, we’ll spend time understanding your goals before recommending a strategy.

The Importance of Legal Guidance Before Testing

Before making any decisions about drug testing:

1. Consult with a legal team experienced in representing young people facing drug charges
2. Understand the potential implications of testing positive or negative
3. Know your child’s rights regarding drug testing requirements
4. Consider alternative strategies that might better serve your child’s case

Beyond Drug Testing: Keys to Successfully Navigating a Possession Case

Drug testing is just one small aspect of your child’s case. More important considerations include:

• Developing a comprehensive defense strategy
• Exploring diversion programs when appropriate
• Understanding the long-term implications of different outcomes
• Protecting your child’s future opportunities for education and employment

Get Guidance for Your Child’s Drug Possession Case

If your child is facing drug possession charges in Cobb County or the surrounding areas, time is not on your side. The best thing you can do now is get help from a legal team that specializes in representing people in their teens and twenties.

Our team understands the unique concerns and goals of young people facing drug charges. We focus on developing strategies that protect their futures, not just address immediate legal concerns.

Contact our team today to discuss your child’s situation and learn what options might be available. The consultation will help you understand the process ahead and how best to protect your child’s interests.

The information provided in this article is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice for your specific situation. Every case is unique, and the best course of action depends on the details of your child’s circumstances.