Community Court
Overview
Community courts are neighborhood-focused courts that attempt to harness the power of the justice system to address local problems. They can take many forms, but all focus on creative partnerships and problem solving. They strive to create new relationships, both within the justice system and with outside stakeholders such as residents, merchants, churches and schools. And they test new and aggressive approaches to public safety rather than merely responding to crime after it has occurred. The first community court in the country was the Midtown Community Court, launched in 1993 in New York City. Several dozen community courts, inspired by the Midtown model, are in operation or planning around the country; click here for a list of active courts. International interest in community courts is also increasing. For example, community courts are already in operation in South Africa, England, Australia and Canada.
To get help planning, implementing, or evaluating a community court, click here.
In The News
- The Detroit Free Press covers the launch of a new community court in southwest Detroit, the first of its kind in Michigan.
- The Portland Tribune writes about the community court housed at Bud Clark Commons, a homeless facility in Multnomah County.
- The Midtown Community Court starts a Veterans Initiative.
- Russell F. Canan, an associate judge for the Superior Court of Washington D.C., participates in a "Google Chat" with Sheriff Alistair Duff of Scotland about Washington D.C.'s community court and approach to problem-solving justice.
- Associated Press writes about community courts.
- R. Gil Kerlikowske, director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, observes and praises the San Francisco Justice Center. Read the article or hear a radio report.
- The Washington, D.C. Superior Court announces community court expansion project.
- International Conference of Community Courts held in Washington, D.C.
- Seattle Community Court launches veterans treatment court.
- Mayor Cory A. Booker celebrates the opening of Newark Community Solutions.
- Mayor Michael Bloomberg announces plans to create a new community court in Brownsville.
- The White House's National Drug Control Strategy endorses community courts.
- "Broken Windows" author on the role community courts play in reducing crime.
- USA Today on the growth of community courts.
- Mentor community courts are selected: Dallas, Hartford, Seattle.
