Summarize the roles and goals of drug courts. What are the pros and cons of having these specialized courts?

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: Drug courts were designed to handle adult, nonviolent offenders of drug laws, incorporating a supervised drug treatment program as an alternative to standard criminal sentencing. The goals were to reduce drug use relapse and criminal recidivism. The courts offer risk and needs assessment, supervision, incentives and sanctions, and treatment and rehabilitation. Those offenders who complete the program successfully may have their
charges dropped or sentences revoked, whereas unsuccessful participants are returned to the regular court system and face possible imprisonment. They are cost effective. Drug courts also increase the length of time an individual remains in treatment. Drug courts have lead to the development of a number of problem-solving court programs have been created to foster treatment for other psychosocial difficulties. In addition, drug courts have now filtered down to the juvenile court system. Negatively, some people feel that drug-law violations are a crime and treatment is not a sanction. Additionally, it has not been proven that drug courts are totally effective.

Criminal Justice

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Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

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