The 5th Judicial District Problem Solving Court has expanded to serve eastern Nebraska’s Saunders, Butler and Colfax counties.

Judge Tina Marroquin presides over the court in the three new counties effective Jan. 7. Judge Rachel Daugherty is the presiding judge over the court serving Hamilton and Merrick counties, while Judge James Stecker presides over the court in York County.

The expanded court under Marroquin is the newest addition to the statewide system of problem solving courts. It’s the second expansion allowed for by additional funding approved by the Nebraska Legislature last session.

Problem solving courts provide an alternative route through the criminal justice system for nonviolent offenders. The courts use a team report where a judge, prosecutor, defense counsel, coordinator, community supervision officer, law enforcement and treatment providers work together on individualized programs for each participant, who are closely monitored using home and field visits. The court’s goal is to help participants become productive citizens rather than returning to the criminal justice system.

Successful court participants can have their original charges dismissed or face reduced consequences, while those who fail to finish the program are sentenced on their original charges.