What is the program?
- The Family Treatment Court is a voluntary specialized court session using a therapeutic approach to support you as you recover from substance use disorder and build a brighter future for yourself and your children.
- It is a collaborative effort of the court, community treatment providers, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and your attorney.
- It provides you with tools and supports to maintain a lifestyle free from substance misuse while creating healthy family relationships.
“When you are in Family Treatment Court, you’re part of a community that supports you. It’s good to know that you are not alone.
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Who can join?
It is open to eligible parents (over age 18) with a care and protection case in the Juvenile Court where substance misuse is an issue.
Where is it held?
Participating parents will be expected to attend court sessions every other week at the Juvenile Court.
How is it different?
- You won't be alone. Court sessions take place with other participants so that you can learn what’s working for others and build a network of support.
- You will have a trained peer recovery coach assigned to you who has been through recovery and can offer you support and insight, and will help you build a sober community
- There is a team approach to recovery. You will be supported by a team of professionals whose focus is your successful recovery.
- Your opinion matters. You will work with the team to create a personalized recovery plan that meets your needs.
Goals
The goal of the Family Treatment Court is to provide you with access to treatment allowing you to begin your recovery from substance use disorder, reclaim your life, and to build a brighter future for yourself and your children.
If your children have been removed, the Family Treatment Court works to ensure that you receive the services needed to reunify your family.
“Family Treatment Court came into my life when it was turned upside down. Without them, I would not be where I am today. I went into this thinking this was just another regular program. I couldn't have been more wrong. The passion, dedication, caring, respect and positive motivation every person from the Family Treatment Court showed me was better than any program out there. People believed in me and my ability to be successful.”
Frequently asked questions
How long does the program take?
There are 5 phases in the program. Everyone’s recovery is different, but generally it takes a little over a year to complete the program.
How does parenting time work in the FTC if my children are in foster care?
In order to support your relationship with your children, at the end of each phase the court will review parenting time and will make recommendations to DCF. These recommendations are based on the progress you have made in your recovery, the resolution of any safety issues, and your children’s needs. You will have a chance to tell the judge what you would like.
Will I be tested for drugs and alcohol?
Yes. Random substance use testing plays a crucial role in supporting people in Family Treatment Court.
Recovery is challenging, but you are not alone. We are here to help.
Talk to your lawyer and reach out to the Juvenile Court Department to take the first step towards a brighter future for you and your family.
Family Treatment Court is a collaboration with the Department of Children and Families, the Committee for Public Counsel Services, the Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Addiction Services and the Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, and local treatment, recovery, and parenting support providers.
The project is supported by Grant #15PJDP-21-GK-04497-DGCT awarded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the MassachusettsTrial Court.