Specialty Courts (usually characterized as either “Drug Courts” or “Problem-Solving Courts”) are specifically-designed court programs aimed at reducing recidivism and increasing public safety by intensive behavioral supervision, judicial monitoring, and treatment of substance abusers. The concept originated in 1989 in Florida. Nevada implemented the first of its 46 Specialty Courts in the early 1990s and has been a pioneer in the field ever since. Nearly one-fourth of the 16,000 courts in the United States are Specialty Courts and they operate both in limited jurisdiction courts and general jurisdiction trial courts. Specialty Courts are the most researched criminal justice program in history. National research shows they reduce crime by as much as 45% more than other methods, producing an average $2.21 direct benefit to the community for every $1 invested. When more high-risk offenders are helped, the return on investment can be $4.13 per $1 invested. (NADCP, 2012).
Nevada’s Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) awards grants to pay for mandated drug and alcohol testing, as well as counseling, electronic monitoring, incentives and other costs of a Specialty Court program. RMC received its first funds ($44,000) in 2009 and continues to apply for the grant annually. The funds come from a $7 per misdemeanor assessment enacted into law by the 2003 Nevada Legislature. In addition to state funds, other sources of revenue include the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) which provides funding to establish or enhance drug court services.
For 2024, RMC is proud to offer four specialty courts in Departments 2, 3, and 4. there is a snapshot of each of our specialty courts.