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Implementation of a prosecutor-led substance use diversion program in New Jersey
Jirka Taylor1, Laura N Sisson2, Michelle Bedoya1
1Department of Health Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 750 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA.
Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment
|July 28, 2026
Summary
This study evaluated the Opt for Help and Hope diversion program in New Jersey municipal courts. The program shows promise, but successful implementation requires administrative capacity and clear roles for peer specialists.
Area of Science:
- Criminal Justice
- Public Health
- Legal Studies
Background:
- Substance use within the criminal legal system necessitates alternative interventions.
- Diversion programs offer alternatives to traditional legal proceedings.
- Opt for Help and Hope is a prosecutor-led diversion program in New Jersey municipal courts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the implementation of the Opt for Help and Hope program.
- To assess its feasibility in the context of municipal courts.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing semi-structured interviews.
- Involved 41 professional stakeholders and 7 program completers.
- Employed a hybrid inductive-deductive thematic analysis of transcripts.
Main Results:
- Program sites adhered to core elements, with local adaptations.
- Overwhelmingly positive stakeholder views on program objectives.
- Four sites reported satisfaction; two had lower participant numbers.
- Stakeholder buy-in and defendant interest are crucial for success.
- Implementation challenges include administrative capacity and defining roles for peer specialists.
Conclusions:
- Municipal courts provide a viable diversion pathway from the criminal legal system.
- Adequate administrative support is essential for program success.
- Clear guidance and support for peer specialists managing dual roles are critical.
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