IN-CJ Podcast 025 – Drug Courts and Reform of Sentencing Practice Lessons from Texas
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This session from the IN-CJ newsdesk was coordinated by Chelsey Narvey and brings together probation professionals and service users to talk about the innovative work of drugs courts and the role of activist judges as an alternative to proscriptive sentencing.
This podcast explores the development of drug and specialty courts in Texas and the lessons they offer for reforming sentencing practice. Drawing on the experiences of judges, practitioners, and participants, the discussion shows how therapeutic and evidence-based approaches can break the cycle of addiction and reoffending.
Judge Diane Bull reflected on her career journey from working in traditional, punitive courts to championing the drug court model. She described how Texas established specialty courts in response to high rates of addiction-driven offending, especially DWI cases. These courts are built on a multidisciplinary approach that combines judicial oversight with structured treatment, personal engagement, and community partnerships.
Drug courts target high-risk, high-need offenders using validated assessments. Participants typically undergo around 200 hours of treatment over 18–24 months, with regular reviews and close contact with judges and probation staff. The model emphasises accountability, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
The podcast highlighted powerful examples of transformation. Initiatives like the “Sober Sisters” network, created by women in recovery, illustrate how participants build peer support and resilience beyond the courtroom. Testimonies from probation graduates demonstrated how treatment-focused courts not only reduced reoffending but also restored dignity, stability, and long-term sobriety.
Challenges remain, including addressing trauma, mental health needs, housing, and employment barriers. Yet evidence from Texas confirms that drug courts reduce recidivism and improve outcomes by prioritising rehabilitation and community support over punishment alone.
This discussion underlines the value of drug courts as a model for sentencing reform, showing how justice systems can move beyond punitive responses to create meaningful change for individuals and communities alike.
Listen to the full discussion in IN-CJ Podcast 025 – Drug Courts and Reform of Sentencing Practice: Lessons from Texas.
