Problem Solving Courts: Resources and Information

In 2007, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers to examine the operations of courts such as drug and mental health courts. NACDL’s Task Force on Problem Solving Court was charged with conducting a thorough analysis of these courts, specifically focusing upon the ethical implications for the defense bar and the constitutional implications for society at large. The Task Force conducted hearings throughout the country in San Francisco, Miami, Tucson, New York, Milwaukee, Austin and the District of Columbia. The project's result was a comprehensive report and recommendations that for the first time provide the perspective of the nation’s criminal defense bar regarding problem courts.

The NACDL website has compiled much information related to Problem Solving Courts including reports, mission statement, hearing schedules, witness list and other information related to the task force hearings. Additional information is available that is useful in evaluating these growing approaches to the criminal justice.