Becker (Seventh District)
Becker / White Earth DWI Court
Judge Gretchen Thilmony and Tribal Judge David DeGroat preside over the DWI Court. If you are interested in observing DWI Court, hearings take place every other Thursday at 1:15 p.m. at the Becker County Courthouse in Detroit Lakes.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Tria Mann, DWI Court Coordinator
913 Lake Ave.
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
(218) 998-8460
(218) 998-8438
Tria.Mann@courts.state.mn.us
Related Links:
Beltrami (Ninth District)
Beltrami County DWI Court Program
What is DWI Court?
The Beltrami County DWI Court Program is designed to coordinate substance abuse intervention with judicial oversight through enhanced supervision and individual accountability. The need for a DWI Court in Beltrami County has been an evolutionary process. As the number of DWI offenders have increased over the years, those in the court system are exploring various ways to deter and address repeat offenders and pursue more effective treatment options. As the growth and success of drug court programs nationally has increased, that philosophy has been adapted to the DWI arena as well. The DWI Court is the best vehicle within the criminal justice system for expediting the time between arrest and entry into treatment and for providing consistent and lengthy structure so the offender will benefit from the treatment experience.
The mission statement of the Beltrami County DWI Court is
“through a holistic team-based approach, the Beltrami County DWI Court seeks to enhance public safety and promote wellness in the lives of participants by providing effective substance abuse treatment, intensive supervision and offender accountability.”
DWI Court recognizes the direct connection between substance abuse and public safety, and the importance of providing rapid entry into appropriate levels of treatment for persons charged with a gross misdemeanor or felony DWI offense.
Judge Annie Claesson-Huseby, District Court Judge, presides over DWI Court hearings.
Who is eligible to participate in DWI Court?
An adult individual may be eligible for participation if he/she meets the following criteria:
- Is currently facing a First Degree DWI (felony) charge with three to four DWI convictions within the past ten years, and the current charge is not a presumptive commitment to prison;
- Is currently facing a Second or Third (gross misdemeanor) Degree DWI charges;
- Is currently facing multiple probation violations on a Second or Third Degree DWI charge;
- Is facing their first probation violation on a felony DWI offense for using drugs or alcohol, missing treatment or no contact with their probation agent;
- Resident of Beltrami County;
- Has been professionally assessed with moderate or severe Substance Abuse Disorder;
- Voluntarily agrees to participate in DWI Court and comply and complete all DWI Court program requirements, including chemical dependency treatment; and
- Has no disqualifying criteria.
*Other cases for offenders with an extensive DWI conviction record outside of the ten-year time frame will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis if factors indicate high risk, high need.
Who is on the DWI Court Team?
The DWI Court Team consists of: District Court Judge Annie Claesson-Huseby, Coordinator, Law Enforcement, County Attorney, Victim Advocate, Probation Officer, and Licensed Alcohol/Drug Counselors.
When is DWI Court held?
DWI Court is held bi-weekly on Wednesday afternoons at 3:30 pm, and is located in the Beltrami County Judicial Center, Courtroom 2 North. It is an open court and the public is welcome to attend. The DWI Court Team conducts a “staffing” at 2:00 pm bi-weekly on Wednesday afternoon concerning cases scheduled for court that day.
Questions or Inquiries
Mark Smith, DWI Court Probation Agent
(218) 850-0142
mark.l.smith@state.mn.us
Tiffani Ott, DWI Court Coordinator
(218) 391-9909
tiffani.ott@courts.state.mn.us
Please contact Mark Smith, DWI Court Probation Agent, if you are interested in the program. It is also beneficial to obtain a chemical health assessment as soon as possible to determine eligibility.
Blue Earth (Fifth District)
Blue Earth County Drug Court
The Blue Earth County Drug Court (BECDC) is a community-wide collaborative effort to reduce crime, increase public safety, lower recidivism, rehabilitate substance abusing offenders, and re-integrate them into the community in hopes that they become contributing members of society, by developing strong supportive relationships with family, friends and surrounding community; by providing multi-faceted interventions, frequent court contacts, intensive supervision and treatment.
Motto:
Creating a climate for rehabilitation, recovery and reducing crime.
Fifth Judicial District Drug Treatment Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator: Kevin Mettler
Blue Earth County Justice Center
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
(507) 469-5518
(507) 304-4710 (Fax)
Blue Earth Family Dependency Treatment Court (FDTC)
The mission of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court is to provide a judicially supervised collaboration to ensure families with chemical dependency issues have individualized and timely treatment and utilization of community based services; so they achieve recovery and children have a safe, stable and nurturing environment.
Goals:
- A multi-disciplinary approach to assist chemically dependent parents involved in the child welfare system.
- Establish timely permanency for children of parents with substance abuse issues with reunification as a preferred outcome.
- FDTC participants reduce substance abuse. Strengthen the capacity of families to provide guidance, structure and nurturance for their childre
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator: Kevin Mettler
Blue Earth County Justice Center
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
(507) 469-5518
(507) 304-4710 (Fax)
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Brown (Fifth District)
Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan Counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
PowerPoint Publications:
Treatment Court Coordinator
Megan Kjolsing, MS, LPCC
Phone: (608) 444-3910
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Carlton (Sixth District)
Carlton County Drug Court
Treatment courts are collaborations between the courts, probation, law enforcement, treatment providers and community partners that work to reduce recidivism of offenders who are chemically dependent. In lieu of incarceration, treatment courts use a treatment-based approach coupled with intensive supervision and judicial oversight to help chemically-dependent offenders maintain sobriety. The offenders enter the treatment court for at least a year, during which time they are expected to complete treatment and remain accountable to probation through providing random urinalysis tests and complying with random home visits.
Carlton County began operating a drug court in August 2014. Each court has its own team of professionals that collaborate and meet weekly to help offenders succeed in the program. Each specialty court also requires that offenders appear in front of the judge and the team at weekly hearings.
By achieving a sober lifestyle, chemically-dependent offenders are less likely to commit crimes and are more likely to be employed and to be providers for their families. Treatment courts not only save money and increase public safety by reducing crime; they also change the lives of the offenders and their families.
For more information, please contact:
Jared Hendler
Treatment Court Coordinator
Carlton County Drug Court
100 North 5th Avenue West #320
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 720-1535
Cass (Ninth District)
Cass County/Leech Lake Wellness Court
The Cass County/Leech Lake Wellness Court is a joint collaboration between the Cass County District Court and the Leech Lake Tribal Court.
Wellness Court is a post-conviction specialty court which provides a non-adversarial community based approach to treat members with drug/alcohol dependence violations of law. The overall goals of Wellness Court is rehabilitating substance abuse offenders, thereby reducing crime and recidivism through intensive supervision, frequent court appearances, substance abuse treatment/counseling, and drug/alcohol testing.
The program is open to chronic substance dependent offenders who are determined to be chemically dependent. The participants are required to follow a course of treatment and court supervision which permits them to avoid incarceration if they are able to meet the requirements of the program. The requirements include completing treatment, biweekly court appearances, and random testing. If a participant violates one of the program requirements they face a series of graduated court sanctions which can include anything from community service work to jail. All participants must become employed during the course of the program or be full-time students. Participants are required to get their driver’s licenses reinstated. In order to graduate, participants must have had a lengthy period of sobriety and be approved for graduation by the Wellness Court team.
The Wellness Court project started in 2005 when members of the Cass County District Court and the Leech Lake Tribal Court attended drug court training to determine whether it would be feasible to have a program to combat one of the most severe problems facing Cass County, chronic drunken driving. Cass County at that time was one of the most deadly counties in Minnesota in terms of alcohol related fatalities.
After much planning the Cass County-Leech Lake Wellness Court became operational in April 2006 and has been in operation since that time. In 2007, the courts entered into the first Joint Powers Agreement in the nation, and the Leech Lake Tribal Flag was officially installed in Cass County District Court (another first in the nation).
The unique aspect of the Cass and Itasca County/ Leech Lake Wellness Court is that it requires the cooperation of two different court jurisdictions and two governmental entities. The judges of the two jurisdictions sit together for court hearings and make joint decisions that affect the participants, who include both Tribal members and non-Indians. Through the use of interactive television many of the hearings are held simultaneously at two different sites, i.e. the Cass County District Court in Walker and the Leech Lake Tribal Court in Cass Lake. Participants are allowed to appear at either site.
General Eligibility:
1st or 2
nd Degree DWI
Resident of Cass County or Leech Lake Tribal Reservation
No violent offense convictions on record
Contact information:
Shirley Smith, Coordinator
PO Box 3000
Walker, MN 56484
Shirley.j.smith@co.cass.mn.us
(218) 547-7237
Chippewa (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Cottonwood (Fifth District)
Cornerstone Drug Court: Cottonwood-Rock-Nobles-Murray-Pipestone Counties
The Minnesota Cornerstone Drug Court
Serving Cottonwood, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Heather Kirchner, MSW
Treatment Court Coordinator
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 295-1019
Faribault (Fifth District)
Faribault-Martin-Jackson
Faribault, Martin, Jackson Family Dependency Treatment Court
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
Special Events Calendar:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator: Tracy Henning
Martin County Courthouse
201 Lake Avenue, Suite 243
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 344-4947
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Grant (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Hennepin (Fourth District)
Hennepin County Drug Court
The Fourth Judicial District Court and Hennepin County implemented Drug Court in 1997, and revised the program in 2007, with the mission to increase public safety, improve chemical health, and reduce crime by targeting the population of adult, non-violent, chemically dependent, felony property and drug offenders, who are at high risk to reoffend. Drug Court is a voluntary, minimum 12-month, post-conviction program, involving the coordinated efforts of the judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, law enforcement, social services, probation, and treatment specialists to quickly identify and intervene in order to break the cycle of chemical dependency and crime.
The judge is the central figure in a team effort to keep participants engaged in treatment, to reward progress for meeting goals and to sanction noncompliant behavior. Drug Court participants receive ongoing judicial supervision from the court, are placed under intensive community supervision, undergo frequent drug testing and engage in long-term chemical dependency treatment. In addition, Drug Court assists participants in enhancing life-skills which may include such services as: job training, education, family counseling, etc. Drug Court encourages participants to take control of their own recovery, but it also has clear and definite requirements which if broken are swiftly dealt with by the judge.
Judge Gina M. Brandt presides over Drug Court. If you are interested in observing Drug Court, hearings take place every Monday at 2:00 p.m. and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in Courtroom #C-853 in the Hennepin Co. Govt. Center.
For more information, please contact:
Lisa Keller, Program Coordinator
(612) 348-9265
email: Lisa.Keller@courts.state.mn.us
Resources:
Hennepin County DWI Court
The Fourth Judicial District Court and Hennepin County implemented DWI Court in 2007, with the mission to increase public safety and reduce the number of alcohol related traffic deaths and injuries by effectively partnering our justice system and community resources to focus on the specific issues of repeat DWI offenders. DWI Court is a voluntary, minimum 18-month, post-conviction program involving the coordinated efforts of the judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, law enforcement, social services, probation, treatment specialists, and victim advocates to quickly identify and intervene in order to break the cycle of chemical dependency and drunk driving.
Eligibility Guidelines:
- Hennepin County resident
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Second Degree Gross Misdemeanor or first-time Felony level charge
- Hennepin County arrest and charged
- Diagnosis of moderate or severe substance use disorder
- Must complete an orientation and screening, voluntarily agree to participate in the program, and be approved by the DWI Court team
The judge is the central figure in a team effort to keep participants engaged in treatment, to reward progress for meeting goals and to sanction noncompliant behavior. DWI Court participants receive ongoing judicial supervision from the court, are placed under intensive community supervision, undergo frequent drug testing and engage in long-term chemical dependency treatment and attend community support groups. In addition, participants may participate in cognitive-behavioral groups, mental health counseling and psychiatric services. DWI Court encourages participants to take control of their own recovery, but it also has clear and definite requirements which if broken are swiftly responded to by the judge.
Judge Gina M. Brandt presides over the DWI Court. If you are interested in observing DWI Court, hearings take place every Thursday at 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in Courtroom C-857 in the Hennepin County Government Center.
For more information, please contact:
Megan Hennessy, Interim Program Coordinator
(612) 348-9633
email: Megan.Hennessy@courts.state.mn.us
Resources:
Hennepin County Veterans' Court
Hennepin County Veterans Court is a court that serves veterans charged with a criminal offense who are struggling with addiction, serious mental illness, and/or co-occurring disorders. It is a 12-18 month coordinated program that promotes sobriety, recovery, and stability involving cooperation and collaboration with the traditional problem solving court partners, with the addition of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care, the Veterans Benefits Administration, County Veterans’ Services, and volunteer veteran mentors. The program couples judicial reviews with intensive probation supervision including input from a multi-disciplinary team of professionals led by the judge. The Fourth Judicial District Court and Hennepin County implemented Veterans Court in July 2010 with the mission of promoting public safety by assisting and supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated response, through collaboration with the veterans’ service delivery system, community based services, and the criminal justice system.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is evaluated by the Veterans Court Team on a case-by-case basis. General requirements include:
- Service in the U.S. Armed Forces;
- Charged in Hennepin County with a non-violent felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor offense;
- Residence in Hennepin County, or in close proximity to the court (metro area); and
- Diagnosed with a treatable behavioral, mental health, or chemical health issue.
Judge Carolina A. Lamas presides over Veterans Court every Monday at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. in Courtroom C-857 at the Hennepin County Government Center.
For more information, please contact:
Lisa Keller, Program Coordinator
(612) 348-9265
Email:
Lisa.Keller@courts.state.mn.us
Related Links
Hennepin County Criminal Mental Health Court
Criminal Mental Health Court is a court that serves defendants charged with a criminal offense who are struggling with serious mental illness and/or co-occurring disorders. It is a 12-18 month voluntary program that promotes stability and sobriety through the cooperation and collaboration of the courts, the mental health system, and corrections. This comprehensive care model allows for a rapid response to unmet needs of participants by removing barriers and providing access to mental health services. The program couples judicial reviews with intensive probation supervision, including input from a multi-disciplinary team of professionals led by the judge.
The Fourth Judicial District Court and Hennepin County implemented the Criminal Mental Health Court in 2003 with the mission to promote public safety by addressing the unmet mental health needs of criminal defendants.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is evaluated by the Criminal Mental Health Court Team on a case-by-case basis. General requirements include:
- Charged in Hennepin County with a non-violent felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor offense
- Hennepin or Ramsey county resident
- Diagnosed with a serious and persistent mental illness, traumatic brain injury, or intellectual development disorder
Judge Carolina A. Lamas presides over Criminal Mental Health Court every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in Courtroom C-857 at the Hennepin County Government Center.
For more information contact:
Michelle Zywicki, Coordinator
(612) 348-6302
email:
Michelle.Zywicki@courts.state.mn.us
Mental Health Court Brochure
Itasca (Ninth District)
Itasca County Wellness Court
What is Wellness Court?
Wellness Court is a post-conviction specialty court which provides for a non-adversarial community based approach to treat members with drug/alcohol dependence violations of law. The overall goals of Wellness Court are rehabilitating substance abuse offenders, thereby reducing crime and recidivism through intensive supervision, frequent court appearances, substance abuse treatment/counseling, and drug/alcohol testing.
The Mission of the Itasca County Wellness is to unite judiciary, criminal justice entities, substance abuse treatment providers, and the community to:
- Enhance public safety
- Ensure offender accountability
- Reduce the illicit substance use of non-violent addicted offenders
- Restore offenders to law-abiding productivity
- Reduce the financial impact on society.
Wellness Court recognizes the direct connection between substance abuse and crime, and the importance of providing rapid entry into appropriate levels of treatment for persons charged with felony drug possession, gross misdemeanor or felony DWI, and accompanying offenses. The Itasca County Wellness Court, created in 2007 under and Joint Powers Agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, was one of the first joint tribal-state jurisdictional courts in the nation. Itasca County Wellness Court continues to serve as a national model for a growing number of other joint jurisdictional wellness courts. Judge Korey Wahwassuck, District Court Judge and Judge Megan Treuer, Leech Lake Tribal Court Judge, preside jointly over Wellness Court hearings.
Who is eligible to participate in Wellness Court?
Participants must meet the following criteria:
- Any felony possession of controlled substance crime in the Third, Fourth, or Fifth degree, or gross misdemeanor or felony level DWI crime involving an adult defendant
- Resident of Itasca County or resides within a 20 mile radius of Grand Rapids
- Non-violent criminal history
- Chemical Health assessment with a minimum of outpatient services recommended
- Voluntarily agrees to participate in Wellness Court
Who is on the Wellness Court Team?
The Wellness Court Team consists of District Court Judge, Tribal Court Judge, Coordinator, Law Enforcement, County Attorney, Public Defender, Probation Officer, and a Licensed Alcohol/Drug Counselor. Several other stakeholders and service providers attend the weekly pre-court meetings.
When is Wellness Court held?
Wellness Court is held once a week on Friday mornings at 10:00 am, and is located in the Itasca County Court House, Courtroom 321. It is an open court and the public is welcome to attend. The Wellness Court Team conducts a confidential “pre-court conference” at 8:30 am each Friday morning concerning cases scheduled for court.
Questions or inquiries?
Chad Christofferson, Wellness Court Probation Officer
(218) 244-8822
chad.christofferson@state.mn.us
Michelle Anderson, Itasca County Probation Agent
(218) 327-2869
michelle.anderson@co.itasca.mn.us
Tiffani Ott, Wellness Court Coordinator
(218) 391-9909
tiffani.ott@courts.state.mn.us
Jackson (Fifth District)
Faribault-Martin-Jackson
Faribault, Martin, Jackson Family Dependency Treatment Court
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
Special Events Calendar:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator: Tracy Henning
Martin County Courthouse
201 Lake Avenue, Suite 243
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 344-4947
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Kandiyohi (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Koochiching (Ninth District)
Borderland Substance Abuse Court
In July of 2011, the Koochiching County Adult Hybrid Drug Court (est. Feb. 2005) and Family Dependency Treatment Court (est. Oct. 2008) merged with the Lake of the Woods DWI Court (est. April 2007) to form the Borderland Substance Abuse Court (BSAC). In June of 2014, due to lack of participation, BSAC discontinued the FDTC. BSAC uses a non-adversarial multidisciplinary approach to provide Adult Hybrid Treatment Court services to offenders with criminal convictions in Koochiching County and Lake of the Woods County.
The mission of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court is to enhance public safety and promote accountability and long term recovery by providing a judicially supervised individual treatment plan to substance abusing program participants. The goal of the program is to return chemical free, self-sufficient, law-abiding citizens to the community.
Lake of the Woods (Ninth District)
Borderland Substance Abuse Court
In July of 2011, the Koochiching County Adult Hybrid Drug Court (est. Feb. 2005) and Family Dependency Treatment Court (est. Oct. 2008) merged with the Lake of the Woods DWI Court (est. April 2007) to form the Borderland Substance Abuse Court (BSAC). In June of 2014, due to lack of participation, BSAC discontinued the FDTC. BSAC uses a non-adversarial multidisciplinary approach to provide Adult Hybrid Treatment Court services to offenders with criminal convictions in Koochiching County and Lake of the Woods County.
The mission of the Borderland Substance Abuse Court is to enhance public safety and promote accountability and long term recovery by providing a judicially supervised individual treatment plan to substance abusing program participants. The goal of the program is to return chemical free, self-sufficient, law-abiding citizens to the community.
Lincoln (Fifth District)
Southwest Community Drug Court: Lincoln-Lyon-Redwood Counties
LLR Adult Drug Court
Southwest Community Drug Court
Serving Lincoln/Lyon/Redwood Counties and the Lower Sioux Indian Community
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator:
Grady Holtberg
Lyon County Courthouse
607 West Main
Marshall, MN 56258
Phone: (507) 401-5062
Redwood County Courthouse
250 South Jefferson
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
(507) 401-5062
Lyon (Fifth District)
Southwest Community Drug Court: Lincoln-Lyon-Redwood Counties
LLR Adult Drug Court
Southwest Community Drug Court
Serving Lincoln/Lyon/Redwood Counties and the Lower Sioux Indian Community
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator:
Grady Holtberg
Lyon County Courthouse
607 West Main
Marshall, MN 56258
Phone: (507) 401-5062
Redwood County Courthouse
250 South Jefferson
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
(507) 401-5062
Mahnomen (Ninth District)
Mahnomen / White Earth DWI Court
Judge Jeffrey Remick and Tribal Judge David DeGroat preside over the DWI Court. If you are interested in observing DWI Court, hearings take place every other Monday at 3:00 p.m. at either the Mahnomen County Courthouse in Mahnomen or the White Earth National Tribal Center in Ogema.
For more information, please contact:
Tria Mann, DWI Court Coordinator
311 N. Main
Mahnomen, MN 56557
(218) 998-8460
(218) 998-8438
Tria.Mann@courts.state.mn.us
Related Links:
Martin (Fifth District)
Faribault-Martin-Jackson
Faribault, Martin, Jackson Family Dependency Treatment Court
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
Special Events Calendar:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator: Tracy Henning
Martin County Courthouse
201 Lake Avenue, Suite 243
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 344-4947
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Meeker (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Morrison (Seventh District)
Morrison County Drug Court
Morrison County Drug Court
Morrison County Drug Court was formed in response to the need for a new, more effective approach to drug offenders. Drug courts that have been developed in a number of other jurisdictions across the country demonstrate that recidivism rates are reduced for participants in “treatment-based drug courts” when compared to the standard incarceration or probation-based approach.
Drug Court Eligibility
In order to qualify for drug court, the individual must meet the following eligibility standards:
- Resident of Morrison County.
- Eighteen years of age or older.
- Have an open criminal case.
- Chemically dependent.
- Qualify based on objective determination of risk and needs.
The Drug Court Program and its Phases
The Morrison County Drug Court program is a five-phased process lasting a minimum of 14 months. Each drug court participant will be assessed a participant fee. All participants are required to: (1) abstain from the use or possession of alcohol, products containing alcohol, illegal drugs, or any non-prescribed mood-altering substance; (2) have sober housing, (3) submit to observed, random drug testing; (4) comply with a curfew; (5) use a whereabouts line to report his or her location; and (6) engage in weekly pro-social activities consisting of employment, volunteering, education, or treatment-related activities. Other major components of the phases include:
Phase 1
Length of phase – minimum of 2 months
Drug Court attendance 3 out of every 4 weeks
Minimum of two meetings per week with Drug Court probation agent
Enter into recommended treatment program and abide by treatment expectations
Obtain and / or maintain health care benefits
Phase 2
Length of phase – minimum of 3 months
Drug Court attendance 3 out of every 4 weeks
Minimum of two meetings per week with Drug Court probation agent
Continued treatment and cognitive programming
Establish health care providers
Phase 3
Length of phase – minimum of 3 months
Drug Court attendance 2 out of every 4 weeks
Minimum of four meetings per month with Drug Court probation agent
Phase 4
Length of phase – minimum of 3 months
Drug Court attendance 2 out of every 4 weeks
Minimum of two meetings per month with Drug Court probation agent
Phase 5
Length of phase – minimum of 3 months
Drug Court attendance 1 out of every 4 weeks
Minimum of two meetings per month with Drug Court probation agent
Completion of 40 hours of community service work
Graduation!
Recovery does not end at graduation. Recovery is a process that lasts a lifetime.
Drug Court Participating Agencies
Morrison County District Court – Seventh Judicial District
Morrison County Attorney’s Office
Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office
Central Minnesota Community Corrections
Morrison County Social Services
Morrison County Sheriff’s Department
Little Falls Police Department
Effective Living Center, Inc.
St. Cloud Hospital Recovery Plus
Northern Pines Mental Health Center
Murray (Fifth District)
Cornerstone Drug Court: Cottonwood-Rock-Nobles-Murray-Pipestone Counties
The Minnesota Cornerstone Drug Court
Serving Cottonwood, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Heather Kirchner, MSW
Treatment Court Coordinator
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 295-1019
Nicollet (Fifth District)
Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan Counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
PowerPoint Publications:
Treatment Court Coordinator
Megan Kjolsing, MS, LPCC
Phone: (608) 444-3910
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Nobles (Fifth District)
Cornerstone Drug Court: Cottonwood-Rock-Nobles-Murray-Pipestone Counties
The Minnesota Cornerstone Drug Court
Serving Cottonwood, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Heather Kirchner, MSW
Treatment Court Coordinator
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 295-1019
Pipestone (Fifth District)
Cornerstone Drug Court: Cottonwood-Rock-Nobles-Murray-Pipestone Counties
The Minnesota Cornerstone Drug Court
Serving Cottonwood, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Heather Kirchner, MSW
Treatment Court Coordinator
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 295-1019
Ramsey (Second District)
Ramsey County Adult Substance Abuse Court
(651) 266-9256, fax: (651) 767-8940
Ramsey County Substance Abuse Court (
ASAC) started in October 2002. ASAC is designed to provide individuals the opportunity to improve their lives and break the cycle of substance abuse. The court uses assessment, treatment (chemical and mental health), strict supervision, random drug and breath testing, regular court hearings and immediate sanctions and incentives to help participants maintain a drug free lifestyle. The program represents a closer working relationship between criminal justice partners (judge, prosecutor, defense attorneys, case managers, and treatment providers) than is traditionally seen in criminal courts. ASAC serves approximately 55 participants in any given day.
Mission
Ramsey County Substance Abuse Court’s mission is to enhance public safety by reducing criminal activity and assist substance abusers to become drug/alcohol free, productive, and law-abiding citizens.
Goals
- Reduce criminal recidivism among chemically addicted offenders
- Increase the number of offenders who remain drug and alcohol free
- Increase the benefit and reduce the cost to the County for providing services to chemically addicted offenders
- Create a response to substance abuse issues among all agencies in Ramsey County
Referral into the ASAC Program
If you think your case is eligible for diversion into Adult Substance Abuse Court or into one of the other problem-solving courts, contact the Treatment Court Supervisor.
Allison Holbrook
(651) 266-8168
Eligibility
- Adult Ramsey County resident
- Charged with a non-violent Felony offense
- Substance abuse/dependency diagnosis and a need for treatment
- Willingness to participate
Program Requirements
The program is a minimum of 12 months in length and divided into three phases, each minimally four months in length. Movement through phases is based on accomplishment of general phase requirements as well as specific case plan goals. Program components include (but not limited to) chemical dependency assessment, treatment, and aftercare, assessment for participation in other programming (cognitive learning groups, mental health interventions), random alcohol and drug testing, regular court appearances, case management meetings, attendance of community support groups, obtain employment or pursue education, participate in pro-social activities, pay restitution and program fees. A formal graduation ceremony will be held to celebrate completion of the program.
Psychiatric Court Clinic (PCC)
The Psychiatric Court Clinic was developed for persons who suffer from co-occurring disorders (substance abuse and mental health) to bridge the gap between immediate intervention and community resources. The PCC provides screening and assessment, case planning, medication management and referral to community-based mental health agencies. Participants are eligible to receive services regardless of their insurance status. The PCC is staffed by a psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse on a weekly basis. Participants meet with the doctor and nurse during court sessions for case review and medication checks.
Accomplishments and Impact
Ramsey County Adult Substance Abuse Court has a proven record of success of changing lives, reducing recidivism and lowering incarceration rates. Evaluation and outcome data reveal that ASAC graduates are less likely to commit a new offense, less likely to be convicted of a new offense, and less likely to spend time in jail than those in a comparison group. Mothers have given birth to 28 drug free babies while in the program. Graduates experienced a 44% reduction in their LSI-R scores (Level of Risk and Services) from program entry to exit.
Team
The Honorable
Mark R. Ireland and
Judith M. Tilsen lead ASAC. The judges supervise participant progress through the RCMHC continuum based on regular hearings, team input, and participant behavior. They also lead the ASAC team in decision-making and hold participants accountable for their progress by use of sanctions and incentives.
Marc Hedman is the Program Coordinator for the Adult Substance Abuse Court (ASAC) in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Awards
In 2010, the Ramsey County Substance Abuse Court was selected to serve a three-year term by the National Drug Court Institute as one of ten Adult Mentor Courts in the United States. In March 2013, the Ramsey County Substance Abuse Court was again selected for a three-year term by the National Drug Court Institute as one of ten Adult Mentor Courts in the United States.
On June 2, 2012 Judge Joanne Smith was inducted into The Stanley M. Goldstein Drug Court Hall of Fame at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals Conference in Nashville, TN. This is the highest achievement given to drug court professionals with only 22 inductees since 2002.
ASAC Prosecutor, Kim Bingham, won the Metro Area Prosecutor Award at the MADD Statewide Recognition Ceremony in March 2012.
Program Materials
Program Brochure
Program Overview
Participant Handbook
Contact
Please contact the Treatment Courts Supervisor for additional information:
Allison Holbrook
(651) 266-8168
Ramsey County DWI Court
(651) 266-9277
The Ramsey County DWI Court is for persons charged with their third or more gross misdemeanor DWI offense or 1st degree felony DWI, non-presumptive commit to prison. The court provides intensive supervision for persons who are interested in changing their drinking and driving behavior and ending their cycle in the criminal justice system. (For general information and for those not charged with a third or subsequent DWI, refer to the
Criminal Court page)
Eligibility
- 3 or more DWI's in a lifetime
- Ramsey County resident
- Gross Misdemeanor level charge or 1st Degree Felony – non presumptive commit to prison
- Ramsey County arrest and charged
- Diagnosis of substance dependence (substance or alcohol disorder moderate or higher)
- No violent criminal history
- Approval by the DWI Court team
- Voluntary participation in the DWI Court Program
Goals
- Increase the number of DWI offenders who become and remain alcohol and other drug free.
- Reduce recidivism among DWI offenders thereby enhancing public safety.
- Restore participants as law-abiding citizens.
Judge
Mark Ireland and Judge
Judith Tilsen preside over the DWI Court. If you are interested in observing the court, hearings take place every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 131B of the
Ramsey County Courthouse.
For more information, contact:
Tanya Jones, Program Coordinator
(651) 266-9277
tanya.jones@courts.state.mn.us
or
Allison Holbrook, Problem Solving Courts Coordinators Supervisor
(651) 266-8168
Informational Matierials:
DWI Program Brochure
Participant Handbook (non-Felony)
Participant Handbook (Felony)
Minnesota DWI Courts: A Summary of Evaluation Findings in Nine DWI Court Programs
Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court
(651) 266-8168
The Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court is a voluntary court program for eligible veterans who have been charged with a crime in Ramsey County. The mission of the Veterans Treatment Court is to promote public safety through enhanced supervision and individual accountability. The purpose of the program is to assist and support veterans by creating a coordinated response through collaboration with the VA, community-based services, and the criminal justice system.
Contact
Tanya Jones, Veterans Court Coordinator
(651) 266-9277
Ramsey County Veterans Court Program
Ramsey County Mental Health Court
(651) 266-9256, fax: (651) 767-8940
Mission and Goals
Target Population, Referral into the Program, Eligibility and Program Requirements
Current Operation
National Learning Site
Accomplishments and Impact
Team
Program Materials, Video, Training
Press, Publications, and Awards
Mission
The mission of the
Ramsey County Mental Health Court (RCMHC) is to increase public safety by reducing recidivism among those whose criminal behaviors are attributable to mental illness. Through court supervision and the coordination of mental health and other social services, the Court supports a psychiatrically stable and crime-free lifestyle among its participants.
Goals
The goals of RCMHC are to:
- Reduce recidivism.
- Improve public safety.
- Reduce the costs of prosecution, incarceration, and hospitalization to taxpayers.
- Improve defendants' access to public mental health and substance abuse treatment services and other community resources.
- Enhance collaboration between criminal justice agencies and the mental health system to better serve those with mental illness.
- Improve the quality of life of mentally ill defendants.
RCMHC meets its goals by directing eligible defendants with mental health disorders from the criminal justice system to community-based mental health, substance abuse and support services.
Rather than the traditional pattern of focusing on the criminal activity of the defendant, the RCMHC focuses on addressing and treating the defendant’s mental health and chemical health needs.
Target Population
The target population of the RCMHC is adult Ramsey County residents who have been charged with a crime that is related to a serious mental illness.
Referral into the Mental Health Court Program
If you think your case is eligible for diversion into Mental Health Court or into one of the other problem-solving courts, contact the Problem Solving Courts Supervisor.
Allison Holbrook
(651) 266-8168
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Mental Health Court program an individual must be:
- 18 years of age or older
- Ramsey County resident (out-of-county considered on a case by case basis)
- Charged with a Crime
- Diagnosed with a significant mental illness
- Legally competent
- A person with no history of violent offenses
- Willing to voluntarily participate and commit to the rigors of the court conditions and treatment plan
Program Requirements
The RCMHC program is a four-phase treatment process, lasting a minimum of one year and a maximum of three years. Each phase consists of specific requirements for advancement into the next phase and outlines the recovery support services delivery plan. Phase movement results upon accomplishing treatment goals as agreed in the treatment plan; court conditions as agreed at acceptance into the RCMHC program and specific phase requirements.
Participants who agree to be accepted into the RCMHC program are required to:
- remain law abiding;
- abstain from illegal or non-prescribed drugs;
- submit to random drug and alcohol testing;
- complete community service hours;
- identify and maintain appropriate housing;
- remain compliant with all medication and psychiatric appointments;
- fully comply with mental health and chemical health treatment recommendations;
- develop and sustain a long-term treatment plan;
- participate in pro-social activities;
- become involved with mental health and community support groups.
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Current Operation
The Second Judicial District's Mental Health Court has been operational since May 2005 and developed based on the national problem-solving court model. The Ramsey County Mental Health Court
(RCMHC) was created when it became increasingly clear that persons with mental illness and co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse disorders were in need of more specialized and individualized jurisprudential approaches.
The RCMHC directs eligible defendants with mental health disorders from the criminal justice system to community-based mental health, substance abuse and support services. Between its inception in May of 2005 and December of 2014, the RCMHC has provided services to 472 individuals with serious mental illness who have been charged with criminal offenses in Ramsey County.
RCMHC is currently funded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Adult Mental Health, and two federal Bureau of Justice and Mental Health Expansion grants. By partnering with Human Services, the RCMHC team includes two community human services case managers who link participants to available community mental and chemical health services. This approach has demonstrated results by changing lives, lowering incarceration rates and reducing recidivism. To maintain adequate resources, the Court relies heavily on pro bono services.
At present, the state of Minnesota has three operational mental health courts and 39 operational drug courts. There are more than 400 mental health courts across the country with many additional courts in the planning phase.
National Learning Site
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and the Council of State Governments Justice Center selected Ramsey County Mental Health Court (RCMHC) as a National Learning Site (more commonly known as “mentor courts”). According to the national reviewing team, RCMHC was chosen not just for programmatic successes, but also for the ability to provide insight and guidance to other jurisdictions interested in starting or expanding a mental health court.
Accomplishments and Impact
The accomplishments of the RCMHC include connecting defendants to mental and chemical health services; reducing the incidences of criminal behavior; reducing the costs to the criminal justice system, corrections, public safety, and hospitals; enhancing the collaboration between the courts and the mental health community; improving the quality of life of defendants upon discharge (i.e., housing and treatment services in place); and assisting defendants with establishing more productive lives including self-sufficiency and self-confidence. Through the coercive authority and monitoring of the RCMHC as well as collaboration with the community, defendant’s mental illness and environmental factors drastically improve. The proven outcome is that people learn to engage in services, and when they have their next mental health crisis, instead of defaulting to the police on the street they default to the treatment system.
The impact of RCMHC has been significant. RCMHC has a proven record of success in changing lives, lowering incarceration rates, reducing recidivism, and improving medication compliance thereby increasing public safety and decreasing criminal justice and court expenses across the board.
Evaluation and outcome data reveals that RCMHC graduates are less likely to be charged with a new offense, less likely to be convicted of a new offense, and less likely to spend time in jail than those in a comparison group of similarly situated offenders who did not participate in RCMHC.
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Team
The Honorable
Mark R. Ireland and
Judith M. Tilsen lead RCMHC. The judges supervise participant progress through the RCMHC continuum based on regular hearings, team input, and participant behavior. They also lead the RCMHC team in decision-making and hold participants accountable for their progress by use of sanctions and incentives.
Marc Hedman is the Program Coordinator for the Ramsey County Mental Health Court.
Program Materials
RCMHC Program Brochure (2016)
RCMHC Participant Handbook (2016)
RCMHC One Page Fact Sheet (2016)
Volunteer Opportunities (2015)
Program Information (2015)
Video
2014 Minnesota CLE Criminal Law Webcast Ramsey County Mental Health Court: Working with the Mentally Ill Defendant.
2010 Ramsey County Mental Health Court on the public access television show One and the Same on the Suburban Community Channels SCC.
Trainings with Links
Minnesota CLE - May 27, 2014: Criminal Law Series Live Webcast
CLE - MAY 23, 2012: Working with the Mentally Ill Defendant
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Press and Publications
MN Judicial Branch:
Ramsey County Mental Health Court Named a 2015-2016 National Criminal Justice/Mental Health Collaboration Learning Site (August 19, 2015)
William Mitchell Law Review:
Ramsey County Mental Health Court: Working with Community Partners to Improve the Lives of Mentally Ill Defendants, Reduce Recidivism, and Enhance Public Safety (May 2015)
Minnesota Lawyer:
Judge: Mental health court needs new money (March 16, 2015)
Minnesota Lawyer:
Briggs attorneys receive MJF recognition (October 28, 2013)
Minnesota Lawyer:
Mental Health Court decreases recidivism (August 19, 2013)
News Release:
RCMHC Reduces Recidivism (July 2013)
2010-2012 RCMHC Report
Ramsey County Bar Association:
Barrister Article (April 2011)
2009 RCMHC Report
Awards
2014 Minnesota Lawyer Unsung Legal Hero Award: Brandi Stavlo
2013 Minnesota Justice Foundation Private Practice Award: Alan Maclin, W. Knapp Fitzsimmons, Michael Wilhelm, and Ankoor Bagchi, Briggs and Morgan, PA
2013 Minnesota Justice Foundation Law Student Award: Suzula Bidon, RCMHC Student Certified Attorney
2009 Ramsey County Bar Association Outstanding Pro Bono Attorney: Warren Maas, RCMHC Pro Bono Attorney
Contact
Please contact the Treatment Courts Supervisor for additional information:
Allison Holbrook
(651) 266-8168
Redwood (Fifth District)
Southwest Community Drug Court: Lincoln-Lyon-Redwood Counties
LLR Adult Drug Court
Southwest Community Drug Court
Serving Lincoln/Lyon/Redwood Counties and the Lower Sioux Indian Community
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Coordinator:
Grady Holtberg
Lyon County Courthouse
607 West Main
Marshall, MN 56258
Phone: (507) 401-5062
Redwood County Courthouse
250 South Jefferson
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
(507) 401-5062
Rice (Third District)
Rice County Treatment Court
Rice County Treatment Court (RCTC) is a hybrid court, serving participants with felony level offenses motivated by substance use disorder, including Felony DWI offenses.
The mission of Rice County Treatment Court is to reduce the adverse impact of serious and repeat offenders on the citizens and criminal justice system of Rice County and create a system that is more effective for participants. The point of entry for participants into Rice County Treatment Court is post disposition with RCTC sentenced as a condition of probation. The Rice County Treatment Court model follows “The Ten Key Components” as developed by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals.
RCTC Brochure
Rock (Fifth District)
Cornerstone Drug Court: Cottonwood-Rock-Nobles-Murray-Pipestone Counties
The Minnesota Cornerstone Drug Court
Serving Cottonwood, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
For more information, please contact:
Heather Kirchner, MSW
Treatment Court Coordinator
1530 Airport Road
Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 295-1019
Scott (First District)
Scott County Treatment Court
Court Information
Scott County Treatment Court (SCTC) started in October 2016. SCTC is designed to provide individuals the opportunity to improve their lives and break the cycle of substance abuse. The court uses assessment, treatment (chemical and mental health), strict supervision, random drug and breath testing, regular court hearings and immediate sanctions and incentives to help participants maintain a drug free lifestyle. The program represents a closer working relationship between criminal justice partners (judge, prosecutor, defense attorneys, case managers, and treatment providers) than is traditionally seen in criminal courts.
Mission
Scott County District Court, in the First Judicial District of Minnesota, will provide a post plea treatment court program to reduce addiction and criminal behavior among non-violent adult offenders residing in the county. Scott County Treatment Court aims to break the cycle of crime and addiction by providing high risk and high need offenders a multidisciplinary strategic response consisting of treatment, wraparound services, support and legal accountability. This is done with the expectation that recidivism will be lowered, overdose deaths prevented, the collateral damage against families and communities will be reduced, the costs to the criminal justice system and community will be decreased and addicts in the criminal justice system will be able to become productive, responsible members of their families and community.
Eligibility
- Scott County resident
- Charged with a non-violent Felony offense
- Substance abuse/dependency diagnosis and a need for treatment
- Willingness to participate
Program Requirements
The program is a minimum of 14 months in length and divided into five phases. Movement through phases is based on accomplishment of general phase requirements as well as specific case plan goals. Program components include (but not limited to) chemical dependency assessment, treatment, and aftercare, assessment for participation in other programming (cognitive learning groups, mental health interventions), random alcohol and drug testing, regular court appearances, case management meetings, attendance of community support groups, obtain employment or pursue education, participate in pro-social activities, pay restitution and program fees. A formal graduation ceremony will be held to celebrate completion of the program.
Program Materials
For more information, please contact:
Heidi Kastama
Scott County Treatment Court Coordinator
200 4
th Ave West
Shakopee, MN 55379
(952) 493-8373
St. Louis Duluth (Sixth District)
Duluth Drug Court
Treatment courts are collaborations between the courts, probation, law enforcement, treatment providers and community partners that work to reduce recidivism of offenders who are chemically dependent. In lieu of incarceration, treatment courts use a treatment-based approach coupled with intensive supervision and judicial oversight to help chemically-dependent offenders maintain sobriety. The offenders enter the treatment court for at least a year, during which time they are expected to complete treatment and remain accountable to probation through providing random urinalysis tests and complying with random home visits.
St. Louis County has four treatment courts: the Duluth Drug Court, the Duluth DWI Court, the Range Hybrid Drug/DWI Court, and the Duluth Mental Health Court. Each court has its own team of professionals that collaborate and meet weekly to help offenders succeed in the program. Each specialty court also requires that offenders appear in front of the judge and the team at weekly hearings.
By achieving a sober lifestyle, chemically-dependent offenders are less likely to commit crimes and are more likely to be employed and to be providers for their families. Treatment courts not only save money and increase public safety by reducing crime; they also change the lives of the offenders and their families.
For more information, please contact:
Jared Hendler
Treatment Court Coordinator
South St. Louis County Drug Court
100 North 5th Avenue West #320
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 720-1535
Duluth DWI Court
Beth Elstad
Treatment Court Coordinators
St. Louis County DWI Court
100 North 5th Avenue West #320
Duluth, MN 55803
(218) 720-1547
Duluth Mental Health Court
Heather Korpela & Elizabeth Henderson
Treatment Court Coordinators
St. Louis County Mental Health Court
100 North 5th Avenue West #320
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 726-2464
St. Louis Virginia (Sixth District)
Range Hybrid Court
Treatment courts are collaborations between the courts, probation, law enforcement, treatment providers and community partners that work to reduce recidivism of offenders who are chemically dependent. In lieu of incarceration, treatment courts use a treatment-based approach coupled with intensive supervision and judicial oversight to help chemically-dependent offenders maintain sobriety. The offenders enter the treatment court for at least a year, during which time they are expected to complete treatment and remain accountable to probation through providing random urinalysis tests and complying with random home visits.
St. Louis County has four treatment courts: the Duluth Drug Court, the Duluth DWI Court, the Range Hybrid Drug/DWI Court, and the Duluth Mental Health Court. Each court has its own team of professionals that collaborate and meet weekly to help offenders succeed in the program. Each specialty court also requires that offenders appear in front of the judge and the team at weekly hearings. Carlton County began operating a drug court in August 2014.
By achieving a sober lifestyle, chemically-dependent offenders are less likely to commit crimes and are more likely to be employed and to be providers for their families. Treatment courts not only save money and increase public safety by reducing crime; they also change the lives of the offenders and their families.
For more information, please contact:
Aleesha Ward
Treatment Court Coordinator
Range Hybrid Court, Lake County
300 5th Avenue South
Virginia, MN 55792
(218) 471-7223
Stearns (Seventh District)
Stearns County Drug Court
The Stearns County Drug Court is a tool designed to meet the goals of accountability and crime prevention. The Stearns County Drug Court is designed to prevent crime by treating the underlying treating substance addiction issue(s) associated with criminal activity and thereby reducing recidivism. Treatment providers keep the court informed about participant’s progress so that sanctions and incentives can be consistently and immediately implemented by the court. Compliance with the program requirements is within the participant’s control and is based on measurable performance goals. Participants are treated firmly, but fairly and consistently, with dignity and respect. Participants who do not successfully complete all three phases of the Drug Court program face traditional sanctions/sentencing options in district court.
Stevens (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Traverse (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Watonwan (Fifth District)
Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan Counties
Fifth Judicial District Adult Drug Court Manual
Brochures/Media/Publications:
PowerPoint Publications:
Treatment Court Coordinator
Megan Kjolsing, MS, LPCC
Phone: (608) 444-3910
Fifth Judicial District Multi County Veterans Court (MCVC)
The Mission of the Fifth Judicial District Veteran's Court is to promote public safety and assist and support veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services, and the court - thereby leaving no veteran behind.
The Minnesota Judicial Council recently approved creation of a Veterans Court Program that will serve the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nicollet and Watonwan in the Fifth Judicial District. A partnership of veteran’s affairs and criminal justice agencies are responsible for the formulation of the multi-county program.
The program is being designed to handle cases involving defendants with veteran status through a judicially-monitored program of alcohol, drug and/or mental health treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The Veterans Court Program recognizes that military veterans face unique challenges following their service and, in turn, need particularized treatment and support that is best provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other veteran specific organizations. A Veterans Court will promote public safety while supporting veterans and their families through a coordinated effort among the veteran services delivery system, community-based services and the court with the stated goal of leaving no veteran behind.
The Veterans Court will be held at noon on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Blue Earth County Justice Center in Mankato. A pre-court staffing session will take place at 11 a.m. in the County Attorney’s Office on second floor of the Justice Center. The Honorable Bradley C. Walker, retired Marine Corps Colonel and Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, will serve as the Veterans Court Judge.
The Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office created a Veterans Program in February 2012 with the help of many partners in the criminal justice system. The new multi-county Veterans Court will model the success of the Blue Earth County Program.
“We have seen firsthand the value in the Blue Earth County Veterans Program and are excited to work with a number of agencies to be able to help additional veterans throughout the seven counties in the Fifth Judicial District,“ said Patrick McDermott, Assistant Blue Earth County Attorney.
A $200,000 grant has been secured to establish the Fifth Judicial District Veterans Court, including hiring a case manager with experience working with veterans and to establish a veteran mentor program.
Brochures/Forms/Publications:
Calendar:
Veterans Court Referral Package:
For More Information Please Contact:
Veterans Court Coordinator:
Kevin Mettler
401 Carver Road
P.O. Box 3543
Mankato, MN 56002
507-469-5518
Wilkin (Eighth District)
Eighth Judicial District Treatment
The Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court began operations July 1, 2014 with the mission of improving public safety and reducing direct and indirect costs to the community associated with substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Using evidence-based practices, the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court will use a multi-cultural, multi–disciplinary approach to break the cycle of substance abuse and to improve offenders’ lives, by involving offenders in a rigorous and supportive program that includes intensive treatment, supervision, and personal accountability. Collaboration between the Adult Justice System and the community results in educated and productive adults, healthy families, and stronger, safer communities.
Wright (Tenth District)
Wright County Adult Drug Court – The Turn
The Turn Publications
For more information please contact:
Darnell Brethorst, Wright County Court Services
The Turn Coordinator
10 2nd St NW Room 402
Buffalo, MN 55313
Phone: (763) 682-7711