What is STEP Court?

• In Event: A STEP in the Right Direction?: Evaluating a Specialty Court Targeting Violent Crimes

Abstract

STEP Court operates under a specialized model to provide court-directed supervision and various treatments to violent offenders with substance use, mental health concerns, and/or cognitive behavioral issues underlying their criminal behavior. This court follows the problem-solving court model and offers alternative judicial processing for individuals accused of certain violent offenses. The program seeks to reduce general and violent crime recidivism using evidence-based approaches, including judicial monitoring and coordination among community and treatment stakeholders. It also follows a process that encourages informed sentencing decision-making and promotes prison diversion if the participant can be safely supervised in the community.

Author

• Brian Renauer, Portland State University