Problem Solving Courts Reducing Recidivism Rates

Problem Solving Courts

Okay, it seemed like an oxymoron to me too when I first heard it, but these courts have merit. Currently there are over 2000 problem solving courts (drug court, mental health court, domestic violence court) in the United States, and nearly all of them are showing positive outcomes including reductions in recidivism and costs associated with incarceration. They have begun to bridge the gap between mental health and addictions treatment, case management, vocational services and the legal system. They target offenders early in their “career” and provide a holistic approach to help them break the cycle of addiction.

Drug court programs use counselors and case managers to assist participants in getting treatment for their mental health and addiction issues, finding a job, maintaining housing and developing a clean and sober support system. Any of these issues, left unattended, can lead a person back to using and/or dealing drugs. Think about it, when people are depressed or stressed out they often drink. When people are unemployed they often are stressed, depressed and bored…a trifecta. When they are homeless they may be depressed and often find themselves around people who are using. And….drum roll please….when all of their friends, family and “associates” use or deal, well, it is gonna be hard to stay clean. Most people who are involved in drug court come from families with a long history of addiction---drugs, gambling, alcohol, sex, work--- the type of addiction does not really matter. What matters is that drug courts have the ability to break the cycle. It targets people relatively early in their addiction, addresses all of their problems, and supports them through the challenges of a complete lifestyle overhaul.

Two of the biggest obstacles I faced working with addicted offenders was keeping them engaged in treatment long enough to have an effect and getting them employed. Research has shown repeatedly that it takes at leas