Trauma, Substance Use, and Justice System-Involved Youth

This briefing paper from the National Judicial Opioid Task Force includes an overview of the concept of trauma and how it affects youth and families involved with the justice system. The paper provides facts about trauma, presents advice for judges on how to avoid retraumatization in the courtroom, and describes 10 Continue reading

Fentanyl, Carfentanil, and Their Analogs in the Courthouse

News reports of first responder’s adverse reactions to synthetic opioids like fentanyl have led to concerns about the risks of the substances for court personnel. This briefing paper from the National Judicial Opioid Task Force discusses the risks of fentanyl and similar substances to court personnel and recommends Continue reading

Sample Court Transfer Agreement – State and Federal Courts

Treatment courts have established themselves as a proven alternative to incarceration for individuals with substance use disorders and justice involvement. Unfortunately, individuals charged in federal court rarely have access to treatment court programs. In 2015, judges in Montana created an memorandum of understanding (MOU) to allow for Continue reading