Problem Solving Courts

Background

The establishment of problem-solving courts in the State of Utah is part of a collaborative approach with an individualized plan for each participant. Courts have observed that the same offenders appear in their courts time and time again. It seemed as if traditional methods of dealing with certain afflictions, such as through strict probation or mandatory imprisonment did not correct the fundamental problem.

Drug courts work by recognizing that unless substance abuse ends, fines and jail time are unlikely to prevent future criminal activity. Consequently, drug courts, through frequent testing and court supervision, focus upon eliminating drug addiction as a long- term solution to crime.

Since the first drug court in Utah was established in Third District Court (Salt Lake) in 1996, the program has spread quickly. There are an estimated 700-800 participants statewide and hundreds of successful graduates.

Although a number of drug courts exist within the State of Utah, all programs have incorporated a set of ten components created by the United States Department of Justice. These guidelines establish structural components across drug courts while each jurisdiction independently handles matters such as treatment providers and participatory restrictions.

U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs Key Components

Key Component #1 Drug courts integrate alcohol and other drug treatment services with justice system case processing.

Key Component #2 Using a non-adversarial approach, prosecution and defense counsel promote public safety while protecting participants' due process rights.

Key Component #3 Eligible participants are identified early and promptly placed in the drug court program.

Key Component #4 Drug courts provide access to a continuum of alcohol, drug, and other related treatment and rehabilitation services.

Key Component #5 Abstinence is monitored by frequent alcohol and other drug testing.

Key Component #6 A coordinated strategy governs drug court responses to participants' compliance.

Key Component #7 Ongoing judicial interaction with each drug court participant is essential.

Key Component #8 Monitoring and evaluation measure the achievement of program goals and gauge effectiveness.

Key Component #9 Continuing interdisciplinary education promotes effective drug court planning, implementation, and operations.

Key Component #10 Forging partnerships among drug courts, public agencies, and community-based organizations generates local support and enhances drug court program effectiveness.

Mental health courts were created to assist those convicted of a crime who need a more streamlined approach.

DUI courts only recently were added to the problem-solving courts roster. These courts are specific to repeat offenders.

Veteran's drug court provides United States Veteran's with an opportunity to improve their lives through a dedicated team of experts.

Whether adult or juvenile, these problem-solving courts reach the heart of the issue using techniques specifically fit to those needs. The Utah State Courts are committed to the improvement of the way of life for those who walk through our doors.

Problem-Solving Courts

Forms for Court Use Only

• Problem Solving Court Introduction and Application Instructions - PDF
• Problem Solving Court Application Form - PDF

The Utah State Courts mission is to provide the people an open, fair, efficient, and independent system for the advancement of justice under the law.