Substance Use Disorders and the Law

Clinical care of individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) presents many legal and ethical challenges. This chapter summarizes some of the common questions that arise in this critical area. Historical and philosophical underpinnings surrounding the debate about addiction as a disease versus choice are reviewed. Considerations and limitations of civil commitment and involuntary treatment are discussed. Criminal justice issues, such as criminal responsibility and drug courts, are summarized. SUD treatment in correctional settings is highlighted as a particularly critical area. Practical concerns such as the interconnection of substance use, crime, and violence are also examined. Additional matters, such as legal and regulatory issues in the treatment of SUDs, along with potential future directions, are considered. Using a case example as a backdrop for these topics, this chapter aims to provide an introductory overview for treatment providers regarding matters at the intersection of substance use and the law.