America's Problem-Solving Courts: The Criminal Costs of Treatment and the Case for Reform

In 2007, NACDL established a Problem-Solving Courts Task Force to examine the operations of courts such as drug and mental health courts. The Task Force 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 culmination of this project is a comprehensive report and recommendations that for the first time provide the perspective of the nation’s criminal defense bar. [Released September 2009]

Documents

To fully understand the ramifications of Problem-Solving Courts, the Task Force conducted seven hearings throughout the country in San Francisco, Miami, Tucson, New York, Milwaukee, Austin and the District of Columbia. The intent of this report is to seek implementation of the recommendations in jurisdictions throughout the country.

News Release September 29, 2009

Watch the Task Force Hearing Summary