Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra H. Bolden, along with judges and military veterans, announced the release of the Problem-Solving Courts Annual Report. The report highlights the progress of 207 problem-solving courts (PSCs) across Michigan from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023. The announcement coincides with Armed Forces Day and takes place during Military Appreciation Month, National Treatment Court Month, and Mental Health Awareness Month.
Justice Bolden emphasized the impact of these courts on community safety by stating, “Problem-solving courts continue to make stronger and safer communities across Michigan by lowering recidivism and unemployment rates among graduates.” She highlighted compassion as a key element in their success: “These successes begin with a key ingredient: compassion. And compassion doesn’t come from a symbol or a building; it comes from the judges, court staff, volunteers, community partners, and others who work day in and day out to make a difference for participants.”
Veterans treatment court (VTC) graduate Fisher shared his personal experience at the event by saying, “Saying that the Veterans Court saved my life sounds cliché, but that is exactly what it did for me.”
The report notes significant achievements such as an 82 percent reduction in unemployment among VTC graduates. Problem-solving courts offer treatment and supervision as alternatives to incarceration through various specialized courts including drug and sobriety courts, mental health courts, veterans' courts, among others. The Michigan Supreme Court supports these initiatives via its State Court Administrative Office by providing resources such as training, education, operational standards, monitoring, certification requirements, and funding.