Learn How These Courts Impact Justice & How You Can Advocate for Change

At VAAC, we believe in breaking down barriers to justice and ensuring that every individual has access to resources that prevent unnecessary incarceration. This month, our partners at MI-CEMI are hosting an important discussion on specialty courts—a growing alternative to traditional sentencing that aims to connect people with services instead of prison time.

Event Details

🗓 Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. EST
📍 Location: Virtual (Zoom link provided after registration)

What Are Specialty Courts?

Specialty courts, such as drug courts, veterans courts, and mental health courts, offer an alternative path for individuals who might otherwise be incarcerated. These courts focus on treatment, rehabilitation, and community-based solutions rather than punishment. But do they truly deliver on their promises?

What You’ll Learn in This Discussion

📌 How specialty courts work and their role in reducing incarceration
📌 Who benefits from these courts and the services they provide
📌 Are they effective? Examining outcomes and challenges
📌 How can YOU advocate for improvements in your community

Why This Matters

Specialty courts have the potential to disrupt the cycle of incarceration—but they’re not perfect. Some communities still face barriers to accessing these alternatives, and disparities in outcomes remain a concern. Local activists play a key role in ensuring these programs work as intended.

Join this conversation to learn how you can advocate for a more effective, fair, and accessible justice system.