Treatment courts in South Dakota are set to host special events throughout May in observance of National Treatment Court Month. These courts aim to provide an alternative to the traditional justice system by helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders transition into healthier, more stable lives.
Noreen Plumage, Director of Treatment Courts in South Dakota, explained the unique approach these courts take: “Treatment courts like ours differ from traditional court because we invite treatment providers and other public health professionals to be a part of the team. They ensure each person in our program receives an evidence-based treatment plan.” This collaborative effort includes judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, probation officers, and law enforcement working together to support participants on their recovery journey.
The focus is not only on clinical treatment but also on addressing broader needs such as education, employment, housing assistance, family reunification, restitution, and healthcare. The goal is to repair lives and reduce drug use and crime at a lower cost than incarceration.
National Treatment Court Month is organized by All Rise, which supports innovation in the justice system for addressing substance use and mental health issues. More information about South Dakota's 17 treatment courts can be found on the South Dakota Unified Judicial System's website.