Substance Abuse

The Substance Abuse Assessment Unit (SAAU) was implemented by the court in an effort to assist the judges in assessing and referring defendants into appropriate programs that will assist them in completing their terms of probation.

The SAAU is staffed by addiction specialists qualified to assess and evaluate levels of addiction and determine appropriate levels of treatment.

Driving Under the Influence cases are referred to the SAAU for evaluation and referral to the appropriate DUI program, DUI Victim Impact Panel and treatment program if necessary.

Drug Court is a special court that hears selected felony and misdemeanor cases involving non-violent, drug-using offenders.

The mission of the Adult Drug Court Program is twofold: to improve lives that have been impacted by drug addiction, and to increase public safety by reducing the amount and frequency of drug related crimes. These goals are accomplished by assisting the participants in leading clean, sober, independent and productive lives. The tools used to provide this assistance are mandated treatment, rigorous court supervision, sanctions and the dedication of caring and knowledgeable collaborative team members.