What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment programs in Georgia?

In Georgia, treatment programs are recommended, or court-ordered after multiple DUI convictions. Going to a treatment program could result in your attorney being able to obtain a more favorable plea with the prosecutor or get you decreased time in jail. The goal of treatment programs is to help our clients identify the issue that led to their drug or alcohol use and help them cope with these problems without turning to the further use of alcohol or drugs. 

Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient:

Simply put, the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment programs is that inpatient requires you to stay at the treatment center 24 hours a day. Your stay would include individual therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, detox, and other activities. Enrolling in an inpatient treatment program shows the prosecutor and the judge that you are serious about learning from your mistakes. 

Outpatient programs may still require daily activities, but the participant is allowed to go home and continue with their life.  Outpatient treatment is often prescribed as the only thing necessary for our client's recovery, or it is ordered after someone completes an inpatient stay. Outpatient programs can include attending Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, group therapy sessions, individual therapy sessions, and drug testing. 

One of the main concerns clients have when deciding between inpatient and outpatient is their employment. Checking in for 30, 60, or 90 days means that you are unable to work. This is a huge concern for people who are the sole providers for their household.  

How to Choose What Program:

There are situations where the judge will order you to enter a specific program but other times that you can choose which program is best. The Law Offices of Lawson and Berry can recommend treatment centers that particular judges and prosecutors prefer.

When trying to decide there are some things to take into consideration:

• Cost: Every program has cost, so it is critical to do your research to find a program you can afford. You may have to make arrangements to pay, use credit, or even submit the bills to your health insurance provider. 
  
• Location: While the location may not appear to be a big deal at first, you will have to do a significant amount of activity at the center, and it is in your best interest to choose one close to your residence or workplace. Missing meetings because of traffic is not a sufficient excuse, so you should choose somewhere convenient for you to get to where your live.
  
• Experience: The treatment center must have specific expertise treating drug and alcohol use issues. Choosing one that does not have sufficient experience will likely result in the court not accepting it. There is a list of approved Georgia clinical treatment providers on the Georgia DUI Intervention Website.

Contact Us:

When charged with a DUI and trying to decide if treatment centers are the right choice, you need to consult with an experienced Georgia DUI Attorney. Our office has over 50 combined years of experience with thousands of successful outcomes obtained. Do not make any decisions without speaking to an attorney or else you could jeopardize your future. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Never suffer through Georgia DUI Penalties without first speaking to our office.