Co-Creating Justice: Participants’ Lived Experiences on Strengths, Struggles, and Solutions in Drug Court

• In Event: Missing Voices, Missed Opportunities: What Clients Teach Us About Drug Court

Abstract

Lived experience criminology in qualitative drug court (DC) research has been limited but is gradually gaining recognition in the field, with increasing emphasis on centering participant voices as co-creators of knowledge and program evaluation. This study contributes to this growing body of research by examining the positioned perspectives and lived experiences of adult drug court (DC) participants. Using focus groups with DC participants from geographically diverse locations in the U.S, this study examines participants’ motivations for involvement, perceptions of program strengths and weaknesses, and relationships with DC team members. Additionally, it assesses the adequacy and accessibility of treatment and support services. Findings highlight the insights and recommendations that DC participants offer, providing guidance for practitioners seeking to improve program effectiveness.

Authors

• Talia LaSane, Temple University

• Sebastian Galleguillos, University of Massachusetts Boston