Missouri
Prosecutor: Make diversion programs part of toolbox
If we are serious about utilizing best practices in the criminal justice system, then the diversion program language found in SB 829 must become law next year. SB 829 would have authorized Missouri's prosecutors to use diversion programs, such as Restorative Justice programs, for many non-violent, low level felonies and misdemeanors. The bill made it out of conference committee on the last day of the legislative session, but the opposition of just one senator to another provision in the bill kept it from being considered and passed. ~Darrell Moore, prosecutor for Greene County, Missouri and a candidate for the Republican nomination to represent the U.S. 7th District.
For article: http://www.news-leader.com/article/20100606/OPINIONS02/6060324/Moore-Mak...
New Use for Problem Solving Courts: Fathering Courts
Jackson County Pioneers Missouri Move to Fathering Courts
http://www.fox4kc.com/news/wdaf-story-daddy-do-over-110609,0,5997057.story
Excerpt:
KANSAS CITY, MO - Kevin Gainey was on top of the world. A good job as a bail bondsman, a lake home, and custody of his young son following his divorce.
But bad habits caught up with him, his son moved back with his mom, and Gainey lost his job.
"Wasn't always accountable for my actions," Gainey now says. "A lot of it had to do with my substance abuse problem."
St. Louis Offers Collaborative Divorce Training
INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE TRAINING
November 13 and 14, 2009
8:30 AM – 4:45 PM
St. Louis University School of Law
3700 Lindell Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63108
Sponsored by:
Collaborative Family Law Association
Trainers:
Nancy Williger, MSW, PhD
Thomas Norton, CPA, CFF, CVA, CFE, CDFA
Rebecca T. Magruder, MSW, JD
Cost and Credits:
$445 if registration postmarked by October 16, 2009
$495 if registration postmarked on or later than October 17, 2009
14.4 CLE credits including 1.2 Ethics credits pending
12.0 CEUs pending
"Missouri model" uses small, therapeutic groups to treat juvenile offenders
A model where only 10% of the juveniles re-offend - what difference would THAT make?
Excerpt:
While America's juvenile system is often criticized for corruption and abuse, Missouri state officials say its juvenile justice solution has saved billions of dollars and reduced the number of repeat offenders. In the last four decades, the state has transformed its juvenile system into one that defies the traditional prison model.