Advocating for Diversion Programs

It’s long past time for the justice system to recognize and address the connection between mental health issues and substance abuse with crime and punishment. That’s why, throughout the country, a focus on linking support and essential treatment to criminal activity has become such a powerful way to mediate the revolving door of incarceration we’ve battled in the criminal justice system. It’s something the dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Lobo Law always look to in lieu of or in concert with time behind bars.

Success

There’s no question about the success of Drug Courts as a diversion program. Well over half of non-violent offenders nationwide who get the opportunity to participate in substance abuse treatment rather than go to jail graduate from the programs, and recidivism rates over three years improves by about one-third.  Some of the best programs claim up to an 85 percent decrease in recidivism.

Mental Health Courts also have promising results, with a 20 percent recidivism rate, compared to a 72 percent rate for non-participants over two years. Some programs are designed specifically toward veterans, while others help participants work toward family reunification.

Diversion programs like these also help graduates to connect to other services such as housing, job training, education, and mental health referrals.

How Programs Work

Evidence-based models are effective because they rely on some very specific tenets. Programs have clear assessment methods and treatment protocols, and, while rigorous, are non-adversarial. Studies indicate that having a law enforcement officer on the team improved graduation success rates. The rules are extremely exacting, as is supervision. Participants undergo routine drug testing, Courtroom interactions are strict, while also being encouraging. As such, participants are rewarded for their successes and sanctioned for missteps, and at some point even tiny infractions can result in release from the program and a stint behind bars. Unfortunately, that means those with the most serious problems and those who are from marginalized groups are generally the most likely to be terminated without success.

Financial Benefits 

While finding issues are a constant challenge, the fact of the matter is that successful diversion programs are much less expensive than traditional incarceration. According to the Urban Institute, the benefits of drug courts financially is more than a 2:1 ratio for every dollar spent. Some programs provide nearly a 4:1 benefit ratio.

Advocating for You

The aggressive, experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys at Lobo Law always fight to protect your rights while achieving the best possible outcomes for you. For many offenders, a diversion program can be an excellent alternative. To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation in our Las Vegas office today.

Source:

nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/do-drug-courts-work-findings-drug-court-research