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
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,
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
Vicarious liability holds employers accountable for employees’ wrongful actions performed within the scope of their employment, especially when operating vehicles for work purposes. This legal responsibility extends to company vehicles and, in some cases, personal vehicles used for work, with liability often hinging on factors like policy enforcement, foreseeability, and proper employee screening. Employers can mitigate risks by implementing clear, consistently enforced vehicle use policies and conducting thorough background checks on employees.
The connection between trauma-informed justice practices and procedural fairness is profound. By adhering to the principles of procedural fairness, courts can create an environment where individuals feel safe, heard, and supported. Judges must recognize that trauma is often invisible and can affect how litigants engage with the legal system. People with trauma histories may react
The Justice Speakers Institute (JSI), as part of its ongoing mission to be a global leader in judicial education and to promote justice and the rule of law worldwide, proudly featured JSI Associate Judge Gayle Williams-Byers (Ret.) as a keynote presenter on Trauma-Informed Courts at the 2024 Child Justice Guidelines Training Seminar for Parish Court
In this episode of Justice Speaks, Kaylee Dickenson, West Virginia’s State Drug Court Coordinator, shares insights on treatment court effectiveness, innovative funding models, and overcoming rural challenges. Learn how her leadership helps reduce recidivism, support participants, and shape the future of Drug and Family Treatment Courts in the state.
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Specialty Courts: What the Evidence Actually Shows
Do specialty courts improve public safety and r... -
Words Matter: How Language Shapes Justice in Treatment Courts
Words influence more than conversation—they sha... -
An Effective Framework for Responding to Substance Use Disorders in the Justice System
Substance use disorders affect every part of th...
