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Specialized Courts: Problem Solving Courts

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Specialized Courts, also known as problem solving courts, are a useful part of the criminal justice system. These types of courts originated when the increasing progression from a rehabilitative system to the “tough on crime” perspective. Specialized courts are used to focus on a specific group of offenders instead of the entire group of offenders for a more individualized approach to each case. This is important to ensure that offenders receive the proper penalties and are able to access the tools necessary for reintegration into society. Specialized courts are specific courts which include offenses such as domestic violence, driving while intoxicated, mental health, and juvenile courts. The creation of problem solving courts help to improve the processing of the court systems by having alternative methods for each type of offense. Doing so, there is a better understanding of the rule of law, penalties, and other factors associated with types of offenders. This understanding is necessary to assist first time offenders, and help to rehabilitate repeat offenders. Without these courts, offenders would be faced with an impersonal court system creating multiple frustrations between the offender and the criminal justice system. The criminal justice system is often faced with a large number of cases and issues …show more content…
Research conducted in multiple areas suggest a lowered rate of recidivism with individuals who were forwarded through drug courts as well as other components of the criminal courts. Specialized courts have been proven in multiple studies as an effective alternative to the common system which can handle each case specifically and is reducing the occurrences of illegal behavior. While critics still argue as to whether these techniques are effective, the specialized courts are continuing to develop and have a substantial impact on the criminal justice

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