The Saskatchewan drug court is expanding to North Battleford and west central areas of the province. In June, the North Battleford Provincial Court held the first session of the expanded drug court.
The drug treatment court program exists in Regina and Moose Jaw.
“Drug treatment courts offer individuals a pathway in recovery rather than incarceration,” Provincial Court of Saskatchewan Chief Judge Shannon Metivier said. “This model of therapeutic justice provides an opportunity to address the underlying issues that bring people into conflict with the law and support lasting change that benefits not only the participants, but their families and communities.”
Offenders must plead guilty to their criminal charges in order to participate in the court. Instead of going to jail, participants must then complete 12-18 months of individualized programming with wrap-around services covering addiction, cultural and spiritual guidance, anger management, education, parenting, employment and more. This programming allows participants to overcome obstacles, find sustained sobriety and reunite with loved ones, notes justice officials.
Drug treatment court is just one of three models of therapeutic court in Saskatchewan. There are also domestic violence courts in Regina, Saskatoon and the Battlefords, and mental health courts in Regina and Saskatoon.
The drug treatment courts in Moose Jaw and Regina have had over 156 graduates since the program started in 2006.
The province is investing $624 million in mental health and addiction services in the 2025-26 Budget.
