Main category for all problem solving courts and topics involving those programs.

accountability courts

Leadership and Innovation in Georgia’s Accountability Courts

In this episode, Judge Lawton Stephens shares his three-decade journey on the bench, offering insights into Georgia’s evolving accountability courts. From launching drug courts to chairing statewide judicial conferences, Judge Stephens discusses the future of treatment courts and the vital role of compassion and structure in criminal justice reform.
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DWI Treatment Court

Leadership and Legacy: Judge Anchondo on DWI Treatment Court Innovation in Texas

Judge Robert Anchondo, Texas’ first DWI treatment court pioneer, reflects on his judicial journey, the evolution of impaired driving courts, and the importance of mentorship and systemic support. This insightful conversation explores challenges and innovations in specialty courts across Texas and beyond.
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Therapeutic justice

Therapeutic Justice: Enhancing the Judge’s Role

Therapeutic justice redefines the judge’s role from neutral arbiter to active facilitator of change. This approach promotes individualized justice, community collaboration, and systemic reform through problem-solving courts. By embracing these principles, judges help transform lives while strengthening public confidence in the court system.
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treatment court leadership

Treatment Court Leadership with Pennsylvania’s Abbey Geffken

In this episode of Justice Speaks, Abbey Geffken discusses her leadership journey in Pennsylvania’s treatment court system. She shares insights on expanding training access, engaging law enforcement, and strengthening partnerships. Her strategic approach offers a blueprint for statewide treatment court growth and innovation.
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addiction and criminal conduct

Cynthia Herriott on Addiction and Criminal Conduct in Law Enforcement

In this 75th episode of Justice Speaks, JSI Co-President David Wallace interviews Cynthia Herriott, the new Vice President of Law Enforcement. Together, they explore the evolving role of ethical leadership, the importance of community engagement, and how addiction intersects with the justice system. Herriott’s experience as a former police chief informs her deep insight into progressive reforms in law enforcement and her vision for transformative justice.
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Problem-Solving Courts in Illinois

Advancing Problem-Solving Courts in Illinois with Bill Blundell 

Bill Blundell, Statewide Problem-Solving Court Manager for Illinois, shares how the state is enhancing its Problem-Solving Courts through strategic planning, federal funding, and collaborative training. This insightful conversation highlights innovative approaches and future goals aimed at expanding access to justice and strengthening specialized courts across Illinois.
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North Dakota treatment courts

Transforming Justice in North Dakota: Treatment Court Collaboration

This episode of Justice Speaks highlights how North Dakota treatment courts thrive through cross-agency collaboration. Jess Throlson and John Gorde share how statewide training, legislative support, and strategic planning are advancing justice reform. Learn how rural challenges are being addressed and what’s next for the state’s specialty courts.
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Treatment Courts for OUD

How Treatment Courts Can Transform OUD Recovery

The opioid crisis has had a profound impact on the criminal justice system, with many individuals struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD) coming into frequent contact with police, courts, and jails. Despite the well-documented effectiveness of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), treatment gaps persist within the justice system. A recent study of high-overdose county
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Strategic Planning for Treatment Courts

The Power of Strategic Planning for Treatment Courts: A Guide to Success

Treatment courts play a vital role in the justice system by providing rehabilitative alternatives for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. However, for these courts to be effective, they must operate within a well-structured, forward-thinking framework. This is where strategic planning becomes essential. A strategic plan ensures that treatment courts remain focused on their mission,
Veteran Treatment Court Mentors

Ethical Boundaries for Veteran Treatment Court Mentors

The Role of a Mentor in VTCs At its core, a Veteran Treatment Court (VTC) mentor serves as a trusted peer and supporter of veteran participants (mentors), guiding them through the court process and connecting them with the necessary resources. Their primary obligations include engaging with and encouraging mentees, assisting them in resolving personal or