Examining an opioid court for felony probationers

Abstract

In response to the opioid crisis, specialty opioid courts have emerged, but we know little about those who participate or their outcomes. We examined participant characteristics along with the impact of their sociodemographic, criminal history, substance use, mental health, and other variables on retention and graduation in an opioid court program. Key findings suggest that participants without health insurance, those with multiple mental health problems, and those with early justice system involvement had poorer outcomes. These results suggest that additional interventions both within the court and through community partners for those with more complicated life circumstances may prove beneficial. Indeed, ongoing budget constraints and limited resources may require problem-solving courts to focus on those at the greatest risk for failure. Nevertheless, opioid courts must be prepared to provide all participants with the tools, services, and support they need so they can realistically achieve otherwise extremely challenging goals.