The Superior Court Drug Intervention Program (“Drug Court”) was established in 1993 as an alternative to incarceration for nonviolent defendants with substance use disorders. It employs a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team—including judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, probation officers, and clinical providers—to guide participants through intensive supervision, evidence-based treatment, and a system of incentives and sanctions. This model of linking the resources of the criminal justice system and substance use treatment programs has proven to be effective for increasing treatment participation and decreasing criminal recidivism.

This public meeting is designed to educate the public and stakeholders about the operations and eligibility criteria of DC Drug Court, highlight evidence based best practices for integrating mental health and substance use treatment, and amplify the voices of individuals with lived experience to humanize the process. By fostering dialogue among attorneys, treatment providers, community organizations, and the general public, we aim to expand awareness, increase participation, and build collaborative partnerships that enhance participant outcomes and support recovery.