The Carlton County Recovery Court kicked off the new year by celebrating two participant graduations at the Carlton County Justice Center.
The most recent graduation, held on February 5, honored a participant who faced a five-year prison sentence but, when offered the opportunity to participate in Recovery Court, turned incarceration into rehabilitation. Both graduations served as motivation for current treatment court participants: they get to see firsthand the positive changes participation in treatment courts can bring.
Courtroom Treatment Court graduation in Carlton County District on February 5, 2026.
“Graduation from Recovery Court represents far more than the completion of a program. It reflects hard work over time, personal growth, and a demonstrated commitment to a law-abiding and productive future,” said Presiding Judge Steve B. Hanke. “The graduate’s progress illustrates the purpose of Recovery Court: combining accountability with treatment, structure, and support to reduce recidivism and strengthen communities.”
Treatment courts work to reduce the recidivism of offenders who experience substance use disorders and/or suffer from a mental health disorder by collaborating with volunteer attorneys, probation, law enforcement, treatment providers, and community partners to rehabilitate offenders. In lieu of incarceration, the treatment court uses a treatment-based approach coupled with intensive supervision and judicial oversight to help justice-involved, chemically dependent and mentally ill community members maintain sobriety and stabilize their mental health. Community support is essential to provide life-changing services to those in need. The treatment court program typically lasts 15 to 24 months.
“This teamwork fosters coordinated support rather than isolated handling of legal and health issues,” Judge Hanke said. “It makes the justice system fairer and more effective for people struggling with substance use disorders.”
The Sixth Judicial District has eight treatment courts. More information about them can be found on the district’s webpage.