Drug Court Alumni Association

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

Drug court is a non-adversarial team approach used to assist individuals with a history of substance use who are arrested for drug-related charges. The team consists of a judicial officer, public defenders, probation officers and counselors. Individuals attend counseling and participate in monthly visits with their probation officer while also attending status conferences with the court. The court provides praise and other incentives when things are going well or provides sanctions to help people get back on track. Drug court is backed by evidence-based research and helps provide accountability and treatment for high risk individuals with substance use disorders. After completing drug court, many individuals desire to remain engaged and appreciate the opportunity to give back to others. The Drug Court Alumni Association gives individuals the opportunity to remain engaged with a supportive network even after they graduated from drug court. Since its creation by Maricopa County Adult Probation Department (MCAPD) staff, the Alumni Association has provided sober activities to many people, with some events having more than 50 persons. The Drug Court Alumni Association provides social events for current drug court participants and graduates where they can support one another on their path to sobriety and a healthy lifestyle.