Therapeutic Drug courts provide an opportunity to those who struggle with substance abuse/mental health challenges and are involved in the criminal justice system. Courts have realized that convicting individuals of a crime without providing the opportunity for rehabilitation doesn’t work. Therapeutic Court provides value to community safety, financially, and in creating programs that meet defendants where they are.
This path connects them not only with services and treatment but also incentivizes their participation. By successfully completing the program they are offered either a dismissal of a charge, less time spent in custody, or other opportunities that offer a benefit to the person. Our focus is on assisting clients to overcome criminal justice involvement and begin building strong relationships with their families, friends, and communities.
What is a Therapeutic Drug Court?
There are 10 key components that define Therapeutic Drug Courts.
- Drug Courts integrate alcohol and other drug treatment services with justice system case processing.
- Using a non-adversarial approach, prosecution and defense counsel promote public safety while protecting participants' due process rights.
- Eligible participants are identified early and promptly placed in the Drug Court program.
- Drug Courts provide access to a continuum of alcohol, drug, and other related treatment and rehabilitation services.
- Abstinence is monitored by frequent alcohol and other drug testing.
- A coordinated strategy governs Drug Court responses to participants' compliance.
- Ongoing judicial interaction with each Drug Court participant is essential.
- Monitoring and evaluation measure the achievement of program goals and gauge effectiveness.
- Continuing interdisciplinary education promotes effective Drug Court planning, implementation, and operations.
- Forging partnerships among Drug Courts, public agencies, and community-based organizations generates local support and enhances Drug Court program effectiveness.
Source: National Association of Drug Court Professionals, 1997
Services
START Court: Success Through Accountability Restitution and Treatment
Random urinalysis is also a key program component.
Treatment Courts: Learn more about Treatment Courts in Oregon
Hours
Monday – Thursday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Friday – 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
Saturday – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location
10564 SE Washington Street/Portland, OR 97216 (Free parking on site, near bus lines #15, 20, and 22, and the MAX green line)