Washington’s Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA) is a program designed to reduce recidivism by offering eligible drug offenders a chance at rehabilitation instead of serving their full prison sentence. While there are two forms of DOSA—prison-based and residential—the prison-based DOSA is a structured program that allows qualifying offenders to serve a portion of their sentence in prison while participating in substance abuse treatment. Please contact a skilled criminal defense attorney now if you or a loved one has been charged with any type of drug crime.

What Is Prison-Based DOSA?

Prison-based DOSA is a sentencing alternative that enables certain drug offenders to receive reduced incarceration time combined with intensive drug treatment. Instead of serving their entire sentence in prison, eligible offenders split their time between confinement and a structured community-based drug rehab program.

The goal of the program is to address the underlying substance abuse issues that contribute to criminal behavior, thereby hopefully reducing the likelihood of an offender reoffending upon release. The details of prison-based DOSA are set forth in RCW 9.94A.662.

Eligibility for Prison-Based DOSA

There are several criteria that must be met for an offender to qualify for prison-based DOSA. These criteria include:

  • The crime committed must be a felony related to substance use,
  • The offender must not have a history of violent offenses,
  • The sentence imposed for the crime must be longer than one year and one day,
  • The offender must be deemed suitable for substance abuse treatment, and
  • The sentencing judge must approve the DOSA sentence.

Please note that certain drug-related offenses, particularly those involving large-scale drug trafficking, may disqualify an offender from receiving DOSA.

How Does the Program Work?

If the above criteria are met, and the court grants a prison-based DOSA sentence, the offender receives a reduced prison term. The specific term will vary, but in general, the term will be for one-half of the midpoint of the standard sentence range or 12 months, whichever is greater.

While the offender serves time, they undergo drug and alcohol treatment within the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC). Upon successful completion of the treatment program and other requirements, the offender may be released from prison early.

After release, the offender is placed under DOC supervision and is required to continue substance abuse treatment and comply with other conditions, such as regular drug testing.

What are the Benefits?

There are several benefits associated with prison-based DOSA. These include:

  • Reduced recidivism – By addressing substance abuse problems, DOSA helps lower repeat offenses.
  • Cost savings – Treatment-focused alternatives reduce the financial burden on the prison system.
  • Rehabilitation over punishment – Offenders have the opportunity to reform and reintegrate into society as productive members.
  • Structured support system – The combination of in-prison and post-release treatment provides a better chance for long-term recovery.

Contact Black & Askerov for Help

If you are facing a drug charge in Washington, prison-based DOSA might allow you to avoid harsh prison time. However, securing DOSA will require the help of a skilled criminal defense lawyer. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Black & Askerov have over 30 years of combined experience helping clients secure sentencing alternatives. We defend clients on a wide variety of drug charges. Our Seattle criminal defense lawyers also have the skill and commitment that makes all the difference in these cases. Contact us now to get the legal help you deserve!