General Info:
What is Knox County Drug Court? The Drug Court is a special court given the responsibility to handle cases involving substance-abusing offenders through comprehensive supervision, drug testing, treatment services and immediate sanctions and incentives. The Drug Court Program brings the full weight of all interveners ( judges, prosecutors, defense counsel, substance abuse treatment specialists, probation officers, law enforcement and correctional personnel, educational and vocational experts, community leaders and others ) to bear, allowing the offender to deal with his or her substance abuse problem. In addition, the Knox County Drug Court ensures consistency in judicial decision-making and enhances the coordination of agencies and resources, increasing the cost effectiveness of partnering agency's programs. The Knox County Drug Court provides one of the most viable options for addressing the substance-abusing offender today. Whether the person enters the judicial system because of a criminal offense, delinquent behavior or the neglect or abuse of their children, they can benefit from the enhanced supervision provided in the drug court system. Not only do offenders benefit, but public safety is also strengthened through the monitoring and accountability that occurs in Drug Court. Generally, treatment choice is made after careful consideration of several factors ; what type and intensity of treatment will best address the participant's needs, what treatment options are available, and is the participant currently receiving services from another treatment provider. A Drug Court Case Manager, trained to apply the American Society of Addiction Medicine Patient Placement Criteria ( ASAM PPC ) makes treatment provider recommendations to the Drug Court Team. Yes. Drug Court attempts to help the participant address any problem, which is likely to interfere with long-term sobriety. Families are encouraged to attend Drug Court, special family education groups, and some treatment sessions with the participant. If the scope of family problems are beyond what the Drug Court Therapists can help with, help is provided to the family in finding suitable care, which will ameliorate the problem.