The Nebraska Judicial Branch announced Tuesday that continued support and expansion of the state’s Problem-Solving Courts could generate significant long-term cost savings while reducing recidivism among justice-involved individuals with substance use and behavioral health needs.

Problem-Solving Courts provide an effective alternative to incarceration by addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. These courts combine treatment, frequent drug testing, intensive supervision, and regular judicial oversight to hold participants accountable while promoting recovery and public safety.

Nebraska currently operates 35 problem-solving courts across all 12 judicial districts, including Adult Drug and DUI Courts, Veterans Treatment Courts, Mental Health Courts, Young Adult Courts, Reentry Courts, Family Treatment Courts, and Juvenile Drug Courts. In 2025, nearly 2,000 individuals participated in these programs.

The financial impact is substantial. The average cost to supervise a problem-solving court participant is approximately $5,000 per year, compared to an estimated $50,005 per year for incarceration. Participants also contribute to program costs. Outcomes are strong: approximately 76% of graduates do not reoffend, consistent with statewide data showing a 24% recidivism rate among successful participants.

Judges play a central role in these results. Forty-two Nebraska trial judges currently preside over problem-solving courts, with district court judges leading most programs and a growing number of county and separate juvenile court judges assuming this added responsibility. In the 2026 State of the Judiciary address to the Legislature, Chief Justice Jeffrey Funke described judicial engagement as the “secret sauce” behind the success of problem-solving courts.

Despite their effectiveness, access remains limited by geography and funding. The Chief Justice emphasized that more eligible participants could be served with additional financial resources.

Local Collaboration, Proven Results

The 5th Judicial District demonstrates how collaboration among justice partners can improve outcomes while reducing costs. Problem-solving courts in the district currently serve participants in Platte, Colfax, Saunders, Butler, York, Seward, Hamilton, and Merrick Counties.

According to the 2022 Nebraska Criminal Justice Reinvestment Report, York County was one of two counties with the highest prison admission rates per 10,000 residents. As of December 3, 2025, 97 individuals who may have otherwise been sentenced to prison are participating in problem-solving courts across the district. In 2024, the district achieved a 70% program completion rate.

York County Attorney Gary D. Olson, whose office participates in the local problem-solving court team, said the county’s experience reflects national research on reduced recidivism and cost savings.

“These courts are not lenient alternatives,” Olson said. “Participants work harder here than they ever would in jail. But the results speak for themselves—less crime, lower long-term costs, and healthier communities.”

“Even under moderate assumptions, the data show that Nebraska can save substantial taxpayer dollars while improving public safety,” Olson stated. “In York County, we have seen firsthand that Problem-Solving Courts change outcomes.” According to Olson, the adult drug court in York County has a recidivism rate of just 11%.

“These programs reduce repeat crime, stabilize families, and strengthen our rural communities,” Olson continued. “They hold people accountable while treating the addiction that brings individuals into the justice system.”

Demand Exceeds Capacity

Demand for problem-solving courts continues to exceed available resources. In Lancaster County, the Adult Drug Court has reached its maximum capacity of 90 participants. Expanding the program would require approximately $300,000 annually to support additional staff and treatment services. Without new funding, eligible candidates are being turned away—many of whom will remain in county jails or enter Nebraska’s already overcrowded prisons.

The Nebraska Judicial Branch encourages policymakers, justice partners, and community stakeholders to support the continued expansion and sustainability of Problem-Solving Courts statewide. Investment in these programs strengthens public safety, reduces correctional costs, and improves outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.

• Problem-Solving Court Overview