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Calling for Help in an Overdose

Ala. Code § 20-2-281 — no misdemeanor drug charge for the person who called first, used their name and stayed

A person is not prosecuted for a misdemeanor controlled substance offense, DUI aside, when the police learned of it only because the person was seeking medical help for someone else. A person under 21 is not prosecuted for having or drinking alcohol on the same terms.

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Who handles this in Alabama: Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Alabama directory.

  • The person acted in good faith, reasonably believing they were the first to call for help.
  • The person used their own name with the authorities.
  • The person stayed with the one who needed help until help arrived.
  • Ala. Code § 20-2-281
Sources for this section (1)
  1. Ala. Code § 20-2-281 — Individuals Under Age of 21 Seeking Medical Assistance for Another

Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Alabama attorney.

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