Announcement, Press Release |
The Bridgeview Drug, Mental Health and Veterans Treatment Courts celebrated the commencement of five participants Monday.
Three Drug Court participants, one Veterans Treatment Court participant and one Mental Health Court participant were honored by court employees with certificates, gifts and applause during a ceremony led by the Hon. Kathaleen T. Lanahan, who is the judge for the Fifth Municipal District Problem-Solving Courts.
“I am so proud of our graduates for their hard work in turning their lives around,” Judge Lahanan said. “They overcame many challenges. Problem-Solving Courts help to move people away from criminal activity and provide a fresh start.”
Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II said the ceremony reflects the court’s commitment to accountability paired with opportunity.
“Problem-Solving Courts hold participants to high expectations while also recognizing that meaningful change is possible,” Chief Judge Beach said. “When individuals are supported, supervised and given the tools to address underlying challenges, they are better positioned to succeed — and our communities are safer as a result.”
Problem-Solving Courts combine intensive judicial supervision, rigorously monitored treatment services and accountability with a team-based approach to help adults with substance abuse and/or mental health disorders reduce recidivism. There are 20 Problem-Solving Courts in Cook County, including Veterans Treatment, Mental Health and Drug Courts.
These courts improve public safety and reduce costs by lowering rates of re-arrest and incarceration.
Kelly Gallivan-Ilarraza, director of the Problem-Solving Courts, said the courts rely on multidisciplinary teams that include judges, assistant state’s attorneys, assistant public defenders, probation officers, clinical case managers, coordinators, law enforcement partners and peer mentors. Together, these teams support participants as they address behavioral health needs and work toward lasting life changes.
Media Contact: ocj.press@cookcountyil.gov
(312) 603-5414
Follow the court on X @CookCntyCourt