Problem Solving Courts/Special Programs

The Problem-Solving Courts/Special Programs division provides court supervised, treatment-based programming that addresses underlying issues causing repeated court involvement in the Washtenaw County Trial Court. All too often, individuals repeatedly cycle through the justice system due to behaviors associated with substance use, behavioral health, and mental health disorders. Our goal is to provide eligible, justice-involved individuals with the treatment, supervision, and resources necessary to achieve stability and end their pattern of criminal activity.

Problem-Solving Court programs provide numerous proven benefits including reducing recidivism and costs to the community in incarceration and victimizations, reducing docket congestion and jail overcrowding, improving outcomes for participants, improving quality of life in the community, and increasing public safety.   The Problem-Solving Courts/Special Programs division strives to utilize evidence-based treatment solutions and transform courtrooms into places of hope and healing.

The Problem-Solving Courts/Special Programs division currently oversees the Drug/DWI Treatment Court, the SASS Diversion Program, and the implementation and operation of future special court programming of the Washtenaw County Trial Court.

 “Treatment courts are the single most successful intervention in our nation’s history for leading people living with substance use and mental health disorders out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability. Instead of viewing addiction as a moral failing, they view it as a disease. Instead of punishment, they offer treatment. Instead of indifference, they show compassion.” -National Association of Drug Court Professionals