Effective justice system responses to individuals with substance use and mental health disorders require strong collaboration between courts, treatment providers, and community partners. JSI Vice President Chief Cynthia Herriott (Ret.) will provide practical strategies to enhance communication, integrate court and treatment approaches, and engage community resources. Participants will learn how a coordinated approach improves case outcomes, supports rehabilitation, and increases public safety.

Treatment courts have demonstrated success in reducing recidivism and promoting rehabilitation. Many of their key principles—such as procedural fairness, team-based decision-making, and a balanced approach to accountability—can also be effectively applied in traditional courtrooms. JSI Co-President Judge Brian MacKenzie (Ret.) will provide judges with practical strategies for fostering collaboration, enhancing procedural fairness, and strengthening judicial engagement. By integrating these principles, judges can improve courtroom efficiency, encourage behavioral change, and build public trust in the judicial process.

A reparative approach can promote recovery, improve compliance, and foster behavioral change while maintaining judicial authority. JSI Co-President Judge Brian MacKenzie (Ret.) will provide practical strategies for applying evidence-based principles, enhancing courtroom interactions, and balancing accountability with individualized support. Judges will gain insight into how a problem-solving approach improves case outcomes, reduces recidivism, and strengthens public trust.

 While case management is a cornerstone of treatment courts, its principles can also enhance judicial support and efficiency in non-treatment court settings. By incorporating structured case management strategies, judges can improve case outcomes, increase compliance, and better address the needs of individuals appearing before the court. JSI Vice President Chief Mack Jenkins (Ret.) will explore practical approaches for integrating case management into traditional courtrooms, strengthening collaboration with service providers, and leveraging judicial engagement to support long-term success.

JSI Consultant Judge Anthony Capizzi (Ret.) will explore common pitfalls in Juvenile Drug Courts (JDCs) that can lead to poor outcomes for youth. By identifying these critical missteps and offering evidence-based solutions, participants will gain practical strategies to improve their programs and ensure they align with best practices.