FAMILY TREATMENT COURTS / COLLABORATIVE COURTS
WHO WE SERVE
Family Treatment Courts, also known as Collaborative Courts, are specialized programs that support families involved in the child welfare system due to substance use disorders. These courts bring together judges, child welfare professionals, treatment providers, and community partners to create a coordinated response that prioritizes child safety, family reunification, and recovery. Through intensive case management, frequent court hearings, and access to comprehensive treatment and support services, families are empowered to heal, rebuild relationships, and achieve long-term stability. Collaborative Courts foster accountability while offering hope and a path forward for families working to overcome the challenges of addiction.
RESOURCES
(including Safe Babies Courts, Early Childhood Courts, Indian Child Welfare Act Courts)
Family Treatment Court Best Practice Standards (Center for Children and Family Futures & NADCP/All Rise). Standards: 1) Organization and Structure 2) Role of the Judge 3) Ensuring Equity and Inclusion 4) Early Identification, Screening, and Assessment 4) Timely, High-Quality, and Appropriate Substance Use Disorder Treatment 5) Comprehensive Case Management, Services, and Supports for Families 6) Comprehensive Case Management, Services, and Supports for Families 7) Therapeutic Responses to Behavior 8) Monitoring and Evaluation.
Washington Court Improvement Program (CIP) – Family & Youth Justice Programs
What Are Family Treatment Courts and How Do They Improve Outcomes for Children and Families? (Casey Family Programs)
Washington Family Treatment Courts – Best Practice Standards Training
Transitioning to a Family-Centered Approach: Best Practices and Lessons Learned from Three Adult Drug Courts. Download Report and Presentation Slides
Family Treatment Court Best Practices & Tip Guide – Identifying Quality SUD Treatment
Plans of Safe Care: An Issue Brief for Judicial Officers
Key Planning Decisions to Successfully Launch Family Drug Court (Webinar)
Family Drug Courts Serving Pregnant Women with Opioid Use Disorders and their Infants (Webinar)
Native Child Advocacy Resource Services
