Reentry Court: New Approach, New Insights

• In Event: Working Out the Details: Reentry Court, Transitional Funds and Home Visits

Abstract

Reentry courts for individuals leaving prison and returning to the community are becoming common in the United States and outcomes data are generally positive. What is less well understood is the programming that impacts those outcomes. We report on the program process of a new reentry court in the New Orleans area with a focus on the unique features of this program, including the involvement of the prison in the process, the mentorship of those reentering by inmates serving life sentences and the creation of a community to which the inmate can return. We conclude by discussing the features of this reentry court programming in the context of anticipated outcomes.

Authors

• Scott Schlegel, Jefferson Parish District Court

• Kelly Frailing, Loyola University New Orleans

• Rae Taylor, Loyola University