As Milwaukee criminal defense lawyers, we’ll do whatever we can to keep you out of jail – but sometimes it’s unavoidable. Unfortunately, extenuating circumstances might make things more difficult for you; in fact, we’ve represented many clients who are battling drug addiction while spending time behind bars.
If that sounds familiar, you need to know what to expect from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
Addicted to Drugs and Going to Jail
In some cases, men who are convicted of crimes in the Milwaukee court system are eligible to serve their sentences, or a portion of them, in the Drug Abuse Correctional Center in Winnebago. Additionally, the Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility has inpatient treatment plans for minimum-security offenders.
However, not everyone is eligible to go straight to a DOC drug treatment center.
So what happens to everyone else?
Detoxing in Jail
Unfortunately, many inmates have to detox and begin to overcome their addictions with little help. The jails and prisons in Wisconsin are equipped to provide spiritual support through chaplains, drug counseling through licensed therapists and other services, but medical help may not be possible.
If you are addicted to drugs and there is a medical treatment available to help you, such as methadone or suboxone, talk to your Milwaukee criminal defense attorney about starting the treatment before you are incarcerated; the facility where you’ll spend your sentence may be obligated to finish the treatment.
Talking to Your Lawyer
Your attorney’s job is to fight for your rights. If you’re addicted to drugs and heading to jail, he or she will attempt to get you the treatment you need. Make sure you’re completely honest with your lawyer about the state of your addiction and the last time you used drugs; that way, he or she can protect your rights throughout the entire process.
Call Gamino Law Offices, LLC at (414) 383-6700. We may be able to help you get through this.
