Conference Agenda - In Person

Grand Ballroom, Floor 2

Teresa M. Stafford-Wright
CEO, Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center

Session Description

Teresa Stafford-Wright weaves together her personal journey as a survivor of incest, rape, and teen dating violence with over two decades of professional experience leading trauma-informed advocacy efforts. As a nationally recognized expert in gender-based violence and trauma-informed care, Stafford-Wright offers both lived wisdom and strategic insight to help participants understand the complex impact of trauma. Through this session, attendees will gain the tools and perspective needed to foster environments rooted in safety, trust, and empowerment.

Learning Objectives:

• Define trauma and describe its effects on the brain, body, and behavior, particularly for individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence.
• Identify the core principles of trauma-informed care and how to apply them across diverse professional settings to minimize re-traumatization and increase engagement.

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Great Hall 1&2, Floor 1

Connie M. Payne, J.D.
Project Director, National Drug Court Institute (NDCI)

Session Description

This session outlines the basic concepts of team development. It offers interactive exercises to demonstrate ways to handle team issues, such as transition and conflict management.

Learning Objectives

• Identify the elements of effective teamwork and different teamwork models.
• Understand new perspectives on effective teamwork and dynamics within your team.

Great Hall 3, Floor 1 

Judge Carla Baldwin
Youngstown Municipal Court, All Rise Faculty

Session Description

Specialized dockets face unique challenges in reviewing and establishing clearly defined policies and procedures that promote due process and equal protection of the laws. The discussion focuses on balancing fairness with swift program entry, participants' progression, and successful program completion.

Learning Objectives

• Identify due process considerations of written notice, reasons for decisions, independent decision-maker, right to counsel, equal access, and equitable treatment.
• Describe the collection and review of data to recognize and reduce unintended disparities in program entry and completion.
• Describe the early identification process and means/methods for effectively “capturing” potential participants for your program.

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Performance Hall, Floor 1 

Nick Emmons
Parole Program Specialist/Reentry Coordinator, Office of Reentry, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections

Session Description

Successful reentry from incarceration back into society is a difficult, complex, and unpredictable process. The individuals being released have different needs, resources, and histories, and therefore different life paths. “Successful Reentry” is not something that happens automatically upon release from prison but is something which has a greater chance of occurring if planned. 

Please join us to participate in a unique experience in which you will get a snapshot into the perspectives of the returning citizens who are entering the community after release from prison. Get a firsthand look at the obstacles and barriers these individuals face when coming home and gain a perspective to better help these individuals plan to succeed.

Download Session Materials

US Bank Theatre, Floor 1

Franklin Hurt, Ph.D
Chief Financial Officer, CompDrug

Session Description

Addictions are a "normal" response when the body's stress management system is unregulated. This system is often damaged by childhood abuse and neglect, creating chronic anxiety and depression that drives people toward substances or behaviors for relief. These self-sabotaging patterns represent the nervous system's desperate attempt to find relief when healthy regulation isn't possible.

Learning Objectives

• Recognize addiction as a "normal" response to autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
• Identify the six common cross-cultural trait and skill deficits demonstrated by individuals using self-soothing behaviors for nervous system regulation.
• Understand how chronic developmental experiences of abuse and neglect impair nervous system function.
• Explain why long-term recovery requires integrated physical, emotional, and cognitive interventions for sense of self rehabilitation.

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¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits
²Approved for COB Credit

Archie Griffin Ballroom, Floor 2 

Erica Burkholder
Fulton County Drug Court Coordinator, Fulton County Court of Common Pleas

Kevin Everhart
Operations Manager, American Court & Drug Testing Services

Session Description

Have you reviewed the newly released All Rise Best Practice Standard for Drug and Alcohol Testing? This session is designed to equip specialized docket professionals with the latest information from that standard, along with evidence-based best practices for implementing effective and ethical drug testing programs.

Participants will explore the scientific foundations of drug testing and examine common issues in testing protocols. Emphasis will be placed on shifting the perception of drug testing—from a punitive mechanism to a therapeutic tool that supports recovery and behavior change.

Drawing on years of professional experience and real-world application, the presenters will offer a unique front-line perspective on how drug testing functions as both a supervision and therapeutic tool in treatment court settings. Real-life stories will highlight both the challenges and the successes of applying these practices in the field.

Key Topics

1. Testing protocols, timing, and method selection,
2. Proper specimen collection and validity monitoring,
3. Preventing tampering and ensuring accurate results,
4. The use of detection windows, and
5. Using test results to reinforce accountability and support recovery.

Learning Objectives

• Describe proper specimen selection and testing protocols that follow Best Practice Standards.
• Discuss specimen validity and tampering prevention measures.
• Explain the appropriate use of test data, detection windows, and a randomized selection process.

Download Session Materials

Senate Chamber, Floor 2

Stacy Potts, MSW, LISW-S
Clinical Social Worker, VA Central Ohio Healthcare System

Session Description

The Ohio legislature is currently considering SB 179, which will require jails, prisons, and courts to verify the veteran status of justice involved individuals. This session will provide an overview of implementing and operating the Veterans Reentry Search Service (VRSS) through the Veterans Administration (VA). Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the process, from initial screening through service connection.

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Ohio Staters, Inc. Traditions Room, Floor 2

Dr. Amy Belcastro-Andrews
Owner/CEO, Belcastro Mental Health Services, LLC

Session Description

Today's juvenile justice system faces unique challenges in an era where social media profoundly shapes adolescent development and mental health. In this session, participants will explore adolescent neurodevelopment and neural flexibility, examine the epidemic of social anxiety among youth including the spotlight effect and peer sensitivity, and learn trauma-informed competency principles essential for productive treatment team communication. The session will also explore ways to develop individualized sanctions and incentives for behavior change.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain social media's impact on adolescents’ anxiety and behavior.
• Discuss practical techniques for building meaningful connections with juvenile clients in the justice system.
• Develop individualized incentive and sanction strategies that effectively motivate behavior change in young people.

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Cartoon Room 1, Floor 3

Julie A. Kalina-Hammond, MSSA, LISW-S
Consultant and Trainer, Center for Evidence-Based Practices (CEBP), Case Western Reserve University

Session Description

Severe and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) are a group of mental health disorders that can have significant impact on a person’s life. These disorders can substantially interfere with major activities of daily living. This impact can be present in their family relations, learning and development, work and social integration. Participants of this workshop will learn the basic difference between a mental health condition and severe and persistent mental illness through understanding the diagnostic criteria.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Discuss mental health condition versus mental illness.
• Discuss common myths regarding mental illness.
• List the diagnostic criteria and symptoms for mental health disorders.

Download Session Materials

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits
²Approved for COB Credit

Cartoon Room 2, Floor 3

Judge Joy Malek Oldfield
Turning Point Program (Sub. Use Docket)
Summit County Court of Common Pleas, General Division

Ben Rich, CDCA
Alumni Group Coordinator, Turning Point Specialized Docket Program

Session Description

There’s no better way to show continuing support for specialized docket participants and the program than creating an alumni group. An active alumni group supports the work of the treatment court team and highlights for participants that recovery is possible. In addition, your treatment team will benefit by being able to listen to alumni ideas and gain valuable insights to increase the effectiveness of your program.

Learning Objectives

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify the top reasons for establishing a treatment court alumni group.
• Explain the process for engaging alumni in the development of a treatment court alumni program.
• Describe the key components that should be included in an alumni group.

Archie Griffin Ballroom, Floor 2

Judge Carla Baldwin
Youngstown Municipal Court, All Rise Faculty

Session Description

Specialized docket treatment teams face unique challenges when members have different professional ethical codes that sometimes conflict with each other. However, these variations can actually strengthen team effectiveness rather than create barriers.

Learning objectives:

• Identify common ethical conflicts between specialized docket treatment team members.
• Explain how diverse ethical perspectives can benefit team decision-making.
• Describe strategies for supporting teammates with different professional obligations.

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Great Hall 1&2, Floor 1

Connie M. Payne, J.D.
Project Director, National Drug Court Institute (NDCI)

Session Description

Why is it so important for specialized dockets to have a clear phase structure that addresses participant needs in a manageable and effective sequence? This overview will focus on how to progress participants to the next docket phase when they have achieved specific, attainable goals necessary for them to accomplish more challenging long-term goals. This progression is separate from the participants' treatment plans and is not based on the level, dosage, or type of treatment they are receiving.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the importance of using risk, need, and responsivity in developing phases.
• Discuss the necessity of program phases that are consistent with treatment requirements and goals.
• Design written materials that adequately communicate what is expected of participants during each phase of the adult treatment court program.

Great Hall 3, Floor 1

Nicole Labor, M.D., Medical Director, OneEighty, Interval Brotherhood Home, Esper Treatment Center

Session Description

Join Dr. Nicole Labor for an exploration of addiction as a chronic medical disease. Drawing from both her extensive clinical experience and personal journey of recovery, Dr. Labor will provide evidence-based insights to help judges, court personnel, and treatment teams better understand substance use disorders and make more informed decisions. Her practical approach will equip specialized dockets professionals with the knowledge needed to support successful participant outcomes and reduce recidivism.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain the neurobiological basis of addiction.
• Identify evidence-based treatment modalities and their application in specialized dockets.
• Recognize signs of treatment progress versus relapse and respond appropriately within the court framework.

Download Session Materials

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits
²Approved for COB Credit

Performance Hall, Floor 1 

Nick Emmons
Parole Program Specialist/Reentry Coordinator, Office of Reentry, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections

Session Description

Successful reentry from incarceration back into society is a difficult, complex, and unpredictable process. The individuals being released have different needs, resources, and histories, and therefore different life paths. “Successful Reentry” is not something that happens automatically upon release from prison but is something which has a greater chance of occurring if planned. 

Please join us to participate in a unique experience in which you will get a snapshot into the perspectives of the returning citizens who are entering the community after release from prison. Get a firsthand look at the obstacles and barriers these individuals face when coming home and gain a perspective to better help these individuals plan to succeed.

Download Session Materials

US Bank Theatre, Floor 1

Julie A. Kalina-Hammond, MSSA, LISW-S
Consultant and Trainer, Center for Evidence-Based Practices (CEBP), Case Western Reserve University

Session Description

The United States continues to be in the throes of an opioid crisis, with high numbers of individuals experiencing opioid use disorder (OUD) and death due to unintentional overdose. Recent reports find that the trend may be reversing for overdose deaths nationally. Although, even with improvements, Americans are still suffering through OUD and subsequent loss of life due to overdose contributing to the trauma responses of families, friends, communities, and treatment providers.

The literature is limited regarding emotional support for providers' grief and loss experiences after a lethal overdose of a patient, but the impact of patient death on providers is real. The processes to address the bureaucratic aspects are well-defined in the literature. Still, the emotional elements are lacking, and we find ourselves “on our own” in navigating through the healing process. This training will provide options for professionals to consider incorporating into practice to assist one another in self-care practices to move through the process of emotional healing after an overdose death. The Center for Evidence-Based Practices incorporates exercises and case examples specific to the unique practice settings of participants in attendance to promote knowledge transfer and skill application practice.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Increase awareness regarding the importance of applying self-care practices to their daily lives to increase resiliency when confronted with critical incidents such as unintentional lethal overdose.
• Learn approaches to enhance effective communication strategies in working with families after unintentional overdose death.
• Identify ways to embrace and strengthen their authentic selves to engage in ways that create connections amongst our colleagues during crisis.

Download Session Materials

Archie Griffin Ballroom, Floor 2

Beth Knack
Peer and Employment Services Manager, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health

Jose Flores, OCPS, ICPS, CDCA, TTS, CPRS-S
Mental Health Administrator, Office of Community Services, Bureau of Recovery Support, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health

Session Description

Join us for this comprehensive session designed for court professionals seeking to enhance their specialized docket programs through peer support services. Participants will gain essential knowledge about certification requirements for peer supporters, explore the evidence-based benefits that peer supporters bring to specialized court environments, and learn proven best practices for successfully integrating peer supporters into existing docket operations. This interactive session will equip attendees with the tools and strategies needed to effectively implement peer support programs that improve participant outcomes and strengthen their specialized court initiatives. Whether you're considering adding peer supporters to your docket or looking to optimize an existing program, this session provides practical guidance for maximizing the impact of peer support in your court community.

Learning Objectives

• Discuss certification requirements for peer supporters.
• Understand the evidence-based benefits that peer supporters bring to specialized court environments.
• Learn proven best practices for successfully integrating peer supporters into existing docket operations.

Download Session Materials

Senate Chamber, Floor 2

Judge Kate Huffman
Second District Court of Appeals, formerly Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, General Division

Dr. Kara Marciani, Psy.D., ABPP
Director of Forensic Services, Forensic Psychiatry Center for Western Ohio

Session Description

In the last forty years, the number of incarcerated adult women increased by more than 475%.  In 2020, over one million women in the United States were subject to criminal justice control, including in prisons, jails, on community supervision, and on parole.  A substantial body of research demonstrates that drug court programs effectively reduce recidivism, increase treatment adherence, and successfully address substance use disorder.  Analysis of gender-specific substance abuse treatment and drug court involvement establish the value of gender-sensitive specialized dockets. 

Women participating in gender-specific recovery dockets are significantly less likely to serve a jail sanction, demonstrate a reduction in post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, and those assessed as high risk to reoffender are significantly less likely to incur a new conviction compared to women participating in mixed-gender courts.  A woman-focused specialized docket provides an opportunity to acknowledge that participants in the criminal justice system bear gender-specific needs, responsibilities and concerns, while addressing the trauma pervasive among women affected by substance use disorder.  This program will begin with a discussion of the gender-based predictors of and patterns and pathways into substance abuse and the criminal justice system.  The faculty will review the recent research on the effectiveness of gender-specific specialized dockets. 

The program will address the specific trauma, treatment, relationship, familial responsibility, physical, mental health, and economic circumstances of women that must be appropriately addressed during drug court participation.  The faculty will conclude with a discussion of the processes, personnel, and programs necessary to build a successful gender-specific specialized docket.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the research findings related to participation in gender-specific specialized dockets.
• State the patterns and pathways to substance abuse and criminal offending for women.
• Determine the specific trauma, treatment, relationship, familial responsibility, physical, mental health, and economic circumstances of women participating in drug courts.
• Understand the key components of a successful gender-specific specialized docket.

Download Session Materials

Supplemental Materials

Ohio Staters, Inc. Traditions Room, Floor 2

Monica Kagey
Director of Outreach and Engagement, Aetna OhioRISE

Ashley Koontz
Justice Administrator, Aetna OhioRISE

Toni D. Ramirez, MSW
Director, Care Management Entity - OhioRISE, I am Boundless

Judge Deborah Lang
Licking County Juvenile-Probate Court

Anthony Wedemeyer
Licking County Juvenile-Probate Court

Session Description

OhioRISE represents a transformative approach to supporting children with complex behavioral health challenges by prioritizing family preservation and community-based care delivery. This session will explore how Aetna Better Health of Ohio, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) and key stakeholders, is implementing this specialized child and family-centric delivery system that shifts away from traditional institutional models toward innovative in-home and community-based services designed to keep families together while addressing the unique needs of this vulnerable population.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify the core components of the OhioRISE program's child and family-centric delivery system.
• Describe the key partnership structure between Aetna Better Health of Ohio, ODM, and community stakeholders in implementing OhioRISE services.
• Recognize the specialized service categories available through OhioRISE for children with complex behavioral health challenges.
• Explain how community-based and in-home services differ from traditional institutional care models in supporting family preservation.

Download Session Materials

Cartoon Room 1, Floor 3

Erin Reed
Director, RecoveryOhio

Session Description

Public and behavioral health data traditionally inform drug policy. However, these measures are often reported months, and sometimes a year or more, after the events giving rise to them. Without reducing the data latency to survey the status of substance use, the appropriate allocation of finite resources remains nebulous. Additionally, related data can predict drug poisoning risk to inform drug policy. This in turn allows the proactive redirecting of resources to support local communities most in need. A more efficient allocation of resources can then prevent drug poisonings and minimize the number of individuals who suffer from substance used disorder from becoming justice involved.

Learning Objectives

• Understanding the inherent latency of the public and behavioral health data.
• Learn about related data which can predict drug poisoning risks.

Download Session Materials

Cartoon Room 2, Floor 3

Erica Burkholder
Fulton County Drug Court Coordinator, Fulton County Court of Common Pleas

Kevin Everhart
Operations Manager, American Court & Drug Testing Services

Session Description

Have you reviewed the newly released All Rise Best Practice Standard for Drug and Alcohol Testing? This session is designed to equip specialized docket professionals with the latest information from that standard, along with evidence-based best practices for implementing effective and ethical drug testing programs.

Participants will explore the scientific foundations of drug testing and examine common issues in testing protocols. Emphasis will be placed on shifting the perception of drug testing—from a punitive mechanism to a therapeutic tool that supports recovery and behavior change.

Drawing on years of professional experience and real-world application, the presenters will offer a unique front-line perspective on how drug testing functions as both a supervision and therapeutic tool in treatment court settings. Real-life stories will highlight both the challenges and the successes of applying these practices in the field.

Key Topics Include:

1. Testing protocols, timing, and method selection,
2. Proper specimen collection and validity monitoring,
3. Preventing tampering and ensuring accurate results,
4. The use of detection windows, and
5. Using test results to reinforce accountability and support recovery.

Learning Objectives

• Describe proper specimen selection and testing protocols that follow Best Practice Standards.
• Discuss specimen validity and tampering prevention measures.
• Explain the appropriate use of test data, detection windows, and a randomized selection process.

Download Session Materials

Great Hall 1&2, Floor 1

Ryan Stickel, Esq.
Policy Counsel, Office of Court Services, Specialized Dockets Section, Supreme Court of Ohio

Samantha Lisy, Esq.
Specialty Dockets Prosecutor, Summit County Prosecutor's Office

Catherine Kurila, Esq.
Unit Chief Chief of the Common Pleas Division, Franklin County Public Defender

Session Description

This panel discussion will explore the critical role of prosecutors and defense counsel in specialized dockets, where the traditional adversarial model gives way to a collaborative, problem-solving approach. An assistant prosecutor and defense counsel actively practicing in specialized dockets will share their perspectives on best practices, including advocating for rights and public safety, contributing to team decision-making, and maintaining professional boundaries by “staying in their lane.” The session will also highlight constitutional and due process concerns that must be safeguarded and provide strategies for drafting clear, efficient documents that meet Ohio’s Specialized Docket Standards and All Rise Best Practice Standards. By the end, attendees will better understand how counsel can serve as subject matter experts, ensuring both the fairness and effectiveness of specialized dockets.

Learning Objectives

• Learn about constitutional and due process concerns that must be safeguarded.
• Learn strategies for drafting clear, efficient documents that meet Ohio’s Specialized Docket Standards and All Rise Best Practice Standards.
• Learn how counsel can serve as subject matter experts, ensuring both the fairness and effectiveness of specialized dockets.

Download Session Materials

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Great Hall 3, Floor 1

Judge Carla Baldwin
Youngstown Municipal Court, All Rise Faculty

Session Description

This presentation will educate non-clinicians on the dynamics of many common co-occurring disorders that are often related to a substance use disorder. It will also describe common behaviors that occur with mental health disorders and the different therapies that are used to treat those behaviors.

Learning Objectives

• Learn the patterns of behavior that are common with certain mental health disorders.
• Learn the different types of therapies that are commonly used for mental health disorders.
• Learn the dynamics of co-occurring mental health disorders.

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Performance Hall, Floor 1

Dan Trevas, Esq.
Judicial System Writer, Office of Public Information, Supreme Court of Ohio

Lisa Colbert
Public Information Manager, Office of Public Information, Supreme Court of Ohio

Session Description

Judges and staff working with specialized dockets must effectively engage with local media and social media to build support in the community. This session will explore ways specialized dockets can engage with local traditional media. The course also addresses leveraging social media platforms to educate the public about specialized docket programs while avoiding potential pitfalls.

Learning Objectives

• Proactively engage media to share positive outcomes and success stories from specialized court programs.
• Develop effective media communication strategies that balance transparency with judicial integrity.
• Prepare court staff to handle media interactions professionally and consistently.

Download Session Materials

US Bank Theatre, Floor 1

Ashley Kerr
Policy Analyst, Office of Court Services, Specialized Dockets Section, Supreme Court of Ohio

Session Description

Participants will gain practical guidance for identifying and developing competitive grant applications. The workshop covers essential grant terminology, explores various funding sources at federal, state, and local levels, and provides hands-on knowledge of the complete grant application process from initial research through successful implementation. The session emphasizes strategic planning, team coordination, and best practices for creating compelling proposals that align with funder priorities.

Learning Objectives

• Identify key grant terminology and funding sources at federal, state, and local levels.
• Understand the essential components of developing a strategic grant application timeline and writing process.
• Recognize the critical elements of successful grant implementation and management practices.

Download Session Materials

Archie Griffin Ballroom, Floor 2

Julie Kalina-Hammond, MSSA, LISW-S
Consultant and Trainer, Center for Evidence-Based Practices (CEBP), Case Western Reserve University

Session Description

Recovery Capital refers to the internal and external resources that individuals draw upon to initiate and sustain recovery. This training provides a comprehensive framework for understanding, assessing, and enhancing Recovery Capital across four domains: personal, social, community and cultural. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to strengthen recovery pathways by leveraging strengths, fostering resilience, and reducing systemic barriers. 

This training will enhance the attendee’s knowledge about recovery capital and utilizing the domains in treatment planning. Participants will learn assessment tools for recovery capital to identify needs and barriers. In addition, based on assessing the needs participants will be able to utilize the framework of Recovery Capital to assist in treatment planning. The Center for Evidence-Based Practices incorporates exercises and case examples specific to the unique practice settings of participants to promote knowledge transfer and skill application practice.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify the four domains of Recovery Capital.
• Learn two screening / assessment tools to identify Recovery Capital.
• Develop interventions related to enhancing recovery capital in treatment.

Download Session Materials

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Senate Chamber, Floor 2

Ashley Short Mejia, MSW
Clinical Research Coordinator, Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital

Natalie Vargas
Research Associate, Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital

Nichole L. Michaels, Ph.D
Principal Investigator, Center for Injury Research and Policy, Nationwide Children's Hospital

Session Description

Experts in substance use treatment recognize that relapse often occurs during the recovery process and the use of opioids after a period of abstinence puts individuals at increased risk of overdose. This session will describe drug overdose prevention strategies and how they can be incorporated into specialized dockets. The session will also include a discussion on how to build successful partnerships between public health practitioners and court personnel, with a focus on rapport building, creating mutually beneficial relationships, and overcoming stigma.

Learning Objectives

• Discuss the Overdose Prevention, Reversal, and Treatment Strategies outlined in the Supreme Court of Ohio Response for Ohio Courts on Opioid and Other Drug Overdoses.
• Evaluate the overdose prevention, reversal, and treatment strategies present in their courts.
• Conceptualize the implementation of overdose prevention, reversal, and treatment strategies in their courts.

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits

Ohio Staters, Inc. Traditions Room, Floor 2

Nicole Labor, M.D.
Medical Director, OneEighty (Treatment Center)

Session Description

Join Dr. Nicole Labor for an exploration of addiction as a chronic medical disease. Drawing from both her extensive clinical experience and personal journey of recovery, Dr. Labor will provide evidence-based insights to help judges, court personnel, and treatment teams better understand substance use disorders and make more informed decisions. Her practical approach will equip specialized dockets professionals with the knowledge needed to support successful participant outcomes and reduce recidivism.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain the neurobiological basis of addiction
• Identify evidence-based treatment modalities and their application in specialized dockets
• Recognize signs of treatment progress versus relapse and respond appropriately within the court framework

Download Session Materials

¹Approved for Attorney Professional Conduct Credits
²Approved for COB Credit

Cartoon Room 1, Floor3

Judge Robert S. Fischer
Warren County Court

Session Description

Authenticity is the number one requirement for a judge running a specialized docket. In order to gain participant trust, you must make the docket your own. In this session, participants will learn to identify key characteristics and needs of their audience, understand fundamental principles for establishing trust and credibility with diverse participant groups, and recognize when and how to adjust their facilitation approach based on real-time feedback and changing session dynamics.

Learning Objectives

• Identify key characteristics of your participants to better understand their needs.
• Explain core principles for building trust and establishing credibility.
• Structure your status review hearings to complement your judicial style.
• Describe ways to pivot to best meet the needs of your docket participants.

Download Session Materials

Supplemental Materials

Cartoon Room 2, Floor 3

James Boleyn
Specialized Dockets Director, Marion Municipal Court

Session Description

Building coalitions is vital to effectively collaborate and form strong partnerships, leading to the success of any specialized docket. This session will explore the importance of building coalitions with key stakeholders to enhance the support system for individuals in the criminal justice system. Through practical tools, real world examples, and interactivity, participants will learn how to develop and sustain effective coalitions, leverage resources, and establish coordinated efforts to address the complex issues facing specialized treatment court dockets.

Learning Objectives

• Summarize the benefits of coalition building in the context of specialized treatment court dockets, including improved collaboration, resource sharing, and increased community support.
• Explain effective strategies for identifying and engaging key stakeholders in the community to build strong coalitions that support the goals of specialized treatment court dockets.
• Develop skills in communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution to navigate challenges and effectively maintain and strengthen coalitions for long-term success in specialized treatment court dockets.

Download Session Materials