Unmuted: Client Perspectives on Drug Courts, Treatment, and Change

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

Abstract

Traditional drug court research often prioritizes system-level perspectives, leaving client voices unheard. Capturing clients' lived experiences requires more than listening, it demands intentional strategies to reduce barriers, foster trust, and ensure meaningful engagement. This discussion offers an applied, practice-driven reflection on what worked (and what didn’t) when conducting research with drug court clients across diverse settings. We share key lessons learned, including overcoming scheduling, accessibility, and language barriers, and strategies for fostering inclusive participation through bilingual facilitation and tailored incentives. By unmuting client voices, this discussion provides practical guidance for conducting equity-informed research that strengthens client-centered drug court systems.

Authors

• Julie Garman, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Deborah Koetzle, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY

• Talia LaSane, Temple University