Question

state court systems can evolve to address new needs. one recent development is the establishment of problem-solving courts, also known as specialty courts. these courts are designed to find solutions for particular types of criminal behavior, beyond the traditional punishment of imprisonment.
read the passage about problem-solving courts. then follow the instructions below.
offenders who take part in problem-solving court programs typically do not go to jail. instead, a judge, a team of service providers, and other members of the community connect the offender to resources that can help them and closely monitor their progress. these resources can include counseling, medical treatment, educational programs, and employment support. the offender may also participate in community service as a way of addressing the damage done by his or her crime.
although the format of problem-solving courts varies by state, they share similar goals. by addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior, these courts aim to reduce recidivism, meaning a return to crime. problem-solving courts can also relieve pressure on overcrowded prisons.
which of the following are examples of an outcome from a problem-solving court? choose two.
a judge orders a defendant found in possession of an illegal drug to participate in a rehabilitation program.
a judge orders a defendant found guilty of shoplifting for the third time to go to counseling and participate in job training.
a judge orders a juvenile found guilty of theft to spend six months in a young offenders prison as punishment for the crime.
a judge orders a defendant found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol to spend 5 days in the county jail.

Explanation:

Problem - solving courts focus on non - imprisonment solutions and addressing underlying causes of crime.

• Option 1: Ordering a drug - possessing defendant to a rehabilitation program fits, as it provides a resource (treatment) instead of jail, aiming to address the cause of drug - related crime.
• Option 2: Ordering a repeat shoplifter to counseling and job training also fits, as these are resources to address underlying issues (like possible financial or psychological causes) and reduce recidivism, not traditional imprisonment.
• Option 3: Sending a juvenile thief to prison is traditional punishment, not a problem - solving court outcome.
• Option 4: Sending a DUI defendant to jail is traditional imprisonment, not a problem - solving court outcome.

Answer:

A. A judge orders a defendant found in possession of an illegal drug to participate in a rehabilitation program.
B. A judge orders a defendant found guilty of shoplifting for the third time to go to counseling and participate in job training.