Drug Courts are an alternative to incarcerating repeat, nonviolent drug felons. In lieu of jail, addicts are mandated to receive comprehensive treatment, which often reduces recidivism. This film goes inside a drug court in South Boston, showing how the court system supervises long-term treatment for drug cases. Defendants include Joe, a heroin addict who has stolen to support his habit. He enters the Drug Court program, then relapses and skips a court hearing. Brian is another case, having entered Drug Court in a sincere attempt to escape addiction. During this process, he is able to confront his disease and get sober. Judge Robert Ziemian provides extensive commentary. Some content may be objectionable. An HBO Production. (24 minutes)

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South Boston Drug Court: Introduction (02:25)


Addiction often starts between the ages of 18-25. Hear brief testimonials from addicts. Drug courts emerged nearly 20 years ago; they mandate treatment and reduce recidivism.

Benefits of Drug Courts (02:08)

Mandatory treatment can place addicts in effective recovery. Dr. Robert Brown considers what South Boston would look like without drug court. There are nearly 1,600 drug courts throughout the U.S.

Daniel Collins (02:37)

Judge Robert Ziemian explains the purpose of drug court. Collins violated probation; the judge orders him to make an appearance every two weeks. Drug court graduates have a 40% less chance of re-offending.

Focusing on Substance Abuse (03:01)

Jack Leary explains the elements addicts must accomplish to graduate from drug court. See an addiction support group. Joe describes his addiction to heroin.

Patrick Linsky (02:10)

Professionals discuss Linsky's case with Ziemian in a pre-court meeting. During his drug court hearing, he receives six months in jail.

Joseph McDonald (03:13)

Professionals discuss McDonald's case with Ziemian in a pre-court meeting. He skips out on his drug court hearing and the judge issues a default warrant.

Grateful for Drug Court (03:04)

Brian Goodman graduates from drug court. Ziemian addresses the court about leaving treatment early. He recognizes several individuals on their success.

Social Recognition (01:54)

The drug court system uses this stimulus to help addicts. Parents can fight for alternative treatments for their children.

Credits: South Boston Drug Court (01:44)