Problem-solving or specialty courts have gained traction in the United States to combat problems of prison overcrowding and high recidivism rates by defendant population who require special attention. Criminal defendants with alcohol or substance addiction and/or homelessness become trapped in the revolving doors of the criminal justice system without adequate assistance to address the underlying cause of illegal behavior. Veterans treatment courts recognize unique aspects of military service that may have contributed to mental health problems by veteran defendants and seek treatment for coping instead of incarceration. The future of problem-solving courts shift the focus from an adversarial approach to a therapeutic jurisprudence model to lower recidivism rates and alleviate caseload pressures on traditional court dockets. With many jurisdictions facing budget cuts, the courts must explore new approaches. For example, an innovative court method may include participants’ use of health information technology for purposes of tracking, setting goals, and offering support through a mobile device. Also, exploration of how technology-assisted therapy is also discussed. Continuation of research and development in implementing individualized treatment for specific offender or offense characteristic is significant and necessary in the United States.
