Drug Prosecution Alternative

The Seattle Drug Prosecution Alternative (DPA) is a joint effort between the Seattle City Attorney's Office (CAO) and Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) which launched in Summer 2025. It is a new approach to handling misdemeanor public drug use and possession cases.

DPA provides an incentive for defendants arrested for drug use and possession to connect with services and commit no new law violations to have their drug cases dismissed. The court's Pretrial Services team supports participants in meeting the conditions of the program including connecting them to community services and supports through SMC's Community Resource Center.

How It Works

Seattle Police (SPD) refers someone to the CAO for public drug use or possession and violations of a SODA order.
CAO reviews and files the case to SMC and determines if the case is eligible for DPA.

DPA Goals

In addition to providing individuals with a route to dismissal of charges and assistance with substance abuse issues, the framework is defined by important goals:

Faster case resolution: resolve cases within 60 days, freeing up court resources.
Increased compliance and support: participants have pathways to engage in services, supporting successful completion of their treatment and connecting to ongoing resources.
Informative reporting: provide regular reporting that builds community trust and offers transparency on outcomes.

What is Considered a Successful DPA Outcome?

To successfully have their case dismissed, participants must accomplish several steps within the DPA:

Sign an agreement with CAO.
Participants are referred to Seattle Municipal Court Resource Center.
Complete orientation to services.
Participate in substance use assessment.
Where applicable, accept a SODA order.
No criminal violations for a 60-day period.

Information for DPA Participants

Attending hearings: You can search your name on the case information portal or contact your attorney to find out when your next hearing is scheduled. DPA is held at SMC 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month at 8:45 AM in Courtroom 1001.

Contact Information

Tonya Dotson, Pre-Trial Manager

Email: tonya.dotson@seattle.gov