Spokane County District Court outlines therapeutic-court options, resources and how to get help

A case manager for Spokane County District Court released a short video describing therapeutic-court options and the supports available to participants, including free drug and alcohol testing and Uber rides for court-required appointments.

"My goal with this short video is to provide you with an overview of opportunities that the therapeutic court may provide for you, a friend, or a family member," the case manager said, describing the courts as programs that meet people "where you are" and work alongside them to address housing, employment, transportation, substance use and educational needs.

Court staff said the programs are collaborative efforts that involve the public defender's office, the prosecutor's office and the office of pretrial services. A second staff member said the courts can help people secure housing and employment, support education goals such as a GED or college, and assist with substance-abuse treatment referrals.

Staff specifically named two specialty dockets: the DUI court and the Spokane Regional Mental Health Court, noting those dockets handle cases in both municipal and district court. "We would be pleased to meet with you to discuss these 2 courts and provide the referral paperwork to the court that best fits your needs," a staff member said.

The video lists contact options: call (509) 477-2230 or visit the Spokane County District Court office at the Broadway Center Building across from the Superior Courthouse on Broadway Avenue, Suite 200. Staff also directed viewers to videos about DUI court and mental health court on the district court website for additional details.

The presentation is informational and invites interested people to meet with staff to explore whether a therapeutic court referral is appropriate; no enrollment decisions or eligibility outcomes are presented in the video.