National Best Practice Standards
|. Target population
Eligibility and exclusion criteria for the drug court are predicated on empirical evidence
indicating which types of offenders can be treated Safely and effectively in drug courts.
Candidates are evaluated for admission to the drug court using evidence-based
assessment tools and procedures. Specifically, offenders who are at high risk for
reoffending and have a high need for treatment because of a deep-rooted addiction are
the target group for drug court. This would include an offender with a record of offenses
related to the offender’s addiction (which includes other offenses in addition to
possession of drugs), and who has been addicted for many years without successful
treatment. First time offenders, and those who abuse, but are not addicted to drugs,
should not be placed in drug court. Instead, they should receive less intensive
treatment or regular probation.
Il. Historically disadvantaged groups
Citizens who have historically experienced sustained discrimination or reduced social
opportunities because of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity,
physical or mental disability, religion, or socioeconomic status receive the same
opportunities as other citizens to participate and succeed in the drug court.
II]. Role and responsibilities of the Judge
The drug court judge stays abreast of current law and research on best practices in
drug courts, participates regularly in team meetings, interacts frequently and respectfully
with participants, and gives due consideration to the input of other team members.
IV. Incentives and sanctions and therapeutic adjustment
Consequences for participants’ behavior are predictable, fair, consistent, and
administered in accordance with evidence-based principles of effective behavior
modification.
V. Substance abuse treatment
Participants receive substance abuse treatment based on a standardized assessment
of their treatment needs. Substance abuse treatment is not provided to reward desired
behaviors, punish infractions, or serve other nonclinical indicated goals. Treatment
providers are trained and supervised to deliver a continuum of evidence-based
interventions that are documented in treatment manuals.
VI. Complementary treatment and other services
Participants receive complementary treatment and social services for conditions that co-
occur with substance abuse and are likely to interfere with their compliance in drug
court, increase criminal recidivism, or diminish treatment gains.
Vil. Drug and alcohol testing
Drug and alcohol testing provides an accurate, timely, and comprehensive assessment
of unauthorized substance use throughout participants’ enrollment in the drug court.
