How Law Enforcement Plays a Role in You Leaving Treatment Early

How Law Enforcement Plays a Role in You Leaving Treatment Early

The objective of an effective treatment center is not to solely prevent substance abuse, but to also correctly identify and treat the underlying issues that lead the individual to engage in active addiction. These programs consist of clinically proven approaches such as 12-step programs, individual counseling, behavioral therapies, and case management. Leaving a program prematurely can result in a heightened risk of relapse, as well as even more detrimental consequences if the program is court-ordered. Many people in recovery worry that their clinicians could potentially contact law enforcement if they choose to leave earlier than intended. This depends on quite a few different factors.

Leaving an Inpatient Program That You Independently Checked Into

If a recovery program was not mandated by a court of law, the individual can typically sign themselves out at anytime. However, this does not automatically mean that there will not be any immediate repercussions. The mental health professionals and addiction experts that are employed by treatment facilities are considered mandated reporters. This means that they are required by law to report any circumstance in which a person is a danger to themselves or others. These reports may be deemed even more necessary if a patient has not finished their supervised medical detox. Even if the court has not been involved in your decision to seek out inpatient recovery options, the clinicians still have a duty to report any potential safety hazards to you and those around you.

When You Decide to Leave a Court-Ordered Program

Leaving a treatment center before the completion of your program is entirely different when it has been ordered by a court of law. Non-violent and first-time drug offenders are often sentenced to serve time at a rehabilitation center as a form of alternative sentencing. By accepting this form of alternative sentencing, you are legally agreeing to complete the program in full. Choosing to leave before you have fulfilled this legal obligation can result in:

  • fines
  • incarceration
  • extended sentencing

In order to adequately determine what your consequences should be after leaving the treatment facility will rely on a few important variables. The judge is going to want to know how long you initially spent in the treatment center before your departure, and how your behavior was during your stay. They will also look at any additional violations that you have acquired after leaving the facility. All of these elements will play a role in how they handle your premature exit.

Completing your rehabilitation program in full is a crucial part of the recovery process. The length of your stay that is determined by the clinicians is done so by carefully considering the specific needs of each patient. Adhering to these recommendations will contribute to relapse prevention and long-term success in all areas of your recovery. If you wish to seek out help in treating your substance abuse issues, contact our team of experienced clinicians at (833) 762-3765.