San Diego Criminal Lawyers Blog
The link between mental health issues and substance abuse and crime and punishment is undeniable. Many believe it is long past time for the justice system to recognize and address the situation. Ergo, there has been a recent countrywide focus on connecting support services and treatment to convicted criminals battling such issues. It can be a powerful way to mediate the revolving door of incarceration in the criminal justice system. It is something the dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Boertje Law always look to in lieu of or in concert with time behind bars.
Success on Many Levels
The success of Drug Courts as a diversion program is well-documented. Well over half of non-violent offenders across the country who are given the opportunity to participate in substance abuse treatment programs graduate from them, and recidivism rates over three years improve by about one-third overall. Some of the best programs claim up to an 85% decrease in recidivism.
Promising results are being seen with Mental Health Courts as well, which have a 20% recidivism rate over two years, compared to a rate of 72% for non-participants. Some programs are designed specifically for veterans, while others help participants work toward family reunification.
Diversion programs like these support graduates in making connections to other services such as housing, job training, education, and mental health referrals after they’ve completed their studies.
How the Programs Work
Evidence-based models are successful because they rely on some very specific practices and goals. Such programs have well-articulated assessment methods and treatment practices, and, while demanding, work to be supportive rather than accusatory or adversarial. Studies suggest that programs that have a law enforcement officer on the lineup improve graduation success rates. Rules in these programs are exacting, as is supervision. Participants undergo routine drug testing and must be available for a test at any time. Courtroom interactions are firm, while also being encouraging, with program participants being rewarded for their successes and sanctioned for missteps. A compilation of even minor infractions can result in release from the program and a stint behind bars. Sadly, that means those with the most serious problems and those who are from marginalized groups are usually the most likely to be terminated without success.
Financial Benefits
The fact of the matter is that successful diversion programs are much less expensive than traditional incarceration, although funding issues are a constant issue hanging over these programs. According to the Urban Institute, the financial benefits of drug courts exceed a 2:1 ratio for every dollar spent. Some programs provide nearly a 4:1 benefit ratio. Continue reading