If you are facing criminal charges, one of these programs could help.
On This Page
Overview
The courts offer several programs to help people facing certain charges. These are intended for people who are first-time offenders, non-violent, and may have drug or alcohol addiction.
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Recovery Court
Non-violent drug offenders might be eligible for recovery court. Read the recovery court brochure to see if the program is right for you. You can also visit the program page for more details.
To be eligible, you must:
- Receive an assessment from a recovery court team.
- Not have any previous convictions or pending charges.
- Be willing to cooperate with the program’s rules.
Program essentials include:
- Regular court appearances.
- Frequent, random drug testing.
- Detoxification, if necessary.
- Residential programs, if needed.
- Intensive outpatient programs.
- Individual and group counseling.
- 12—step, self-help groups.
- Relapse prevention.
- Sanctions and incentives.
- Community service requirements.
Recovery court might be your best chance at avoiding jail time and defeating addiction
Pretrial Intervention
PTI is a program available for some first-time offenders. Repeat offenders are ineligible. It is only available prior to conviction. If approved, you can avoid serving time. You must fully comply with the program.
The program requires close supervision. You will have to report to your probation officer and follow the conditions of PTI. Use the application form to apply for PTI.
Visit the PTI page for more information on eligibility, program contacts and expungement.
Help for Veterans
There are two programs designed to help veterans who come into contact with the New Jersey court system.
The Veteran’s Diversion Program helps veterans struggling with addiction or mental illness. The court case is deferred while they receive help, such as mental health counseling, job placement, and addiction services. If the veteran completes the program, the judge could dismiss the charges and the case could be removed from the public record. Talk to your attorney if you are interested in the program. Read the brochure to learn more.
The Judiciary’s Veteran’s Assistance Program is not a diversion program. Court staff can refer veterans directly to their local veterans service office. Veterans can receive mental health counseling, addiction services, legal services, housing assistance, and mentoring. The program is voluntary. Speak to court staff if you are interested in this program.
Intensive Supervision Program
ISP is a program available to certain state inmates. It allows inmates to rejoin the community under close supervision. A panel of judges will review your application and your re-entry plan. Special probation offices will ensure that you follow the plan. It is intense and very strict. You need to be fully committed to the program to succeed. There are several types of crimes that do not qualify for ISP.
Apply for ISP or visit our detailed program page.