How can you use Motivational Interviewing in criminal justice?

1 Pretrial Services

Pretrial services are interventions that aim to ensure that defendants appear in court and do not commit new crimes while awaiting trial. MI can be used by pretrial officers to assess the risk and needs of defendants, to enhance their motivation to comply with pretrial conditions, and to connect them with appropriate resources and support. MI can also help pretrial officers to build rapport and trust with defendants, to elicit their goals and values, and to address any barriers or challenges they may face.

2 Probation and Parole

Probation and parole are forms of community supervision that require offenders to follow certain rules and conditions, such as reporting to an officer, attending treatment, or performing community service. MI can be used by probation and parole officers to monitor and enforce compliance, to encourage pro-social behavior, and to facilitate change. MI can also help probation and parole officers to avoid confrontation and coercion, to reduce resistance and defensiveness, and to reinforce positive steps and achievements.

3 Diversion Programs

Diversion programs are alternatives to prosecution or incarceration that offer offenders the opportunity to avoid or reduce criminal sanctions by participating in certain activities, such as education, counseling, or restitution. MI can be used by diversion program staff to motivate offenders to accept and complete the program requirements, to address any underlying issues or problems that contribute to their offending, and to promote their reintegration into society. MI can also help diversion program staff to tailor the program to the individual needs and preferences of the offenders, to respect their autonomy and self-determination, and to collaborate with other agencies and stakeholders.

4 Restorative Justice

Restorative justice is a process that involves the voluntary participation of offenders, victims, and community members in repairing the harm caused by crime. MI can be used by restorative justice facilitators to prepare and support the participants, to facilitate dialogue and understanding, and to foster healing and reconciliation. MI can also help restorative justice facilitators to elicit the perspectives and emotions of the participants, to acknowledge and validate their feelings, and to enhance their empathy and compassion.

5 Treatment Courts

Treatment courts are specialized court programs that combine judicial supervision, treatment services, and incentives and sanctions for offenders with substance abuse or mental health issues. MI can be used by treatment court team members, such as judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, case managers, and treatment providers, to engage and retain offenders in the program, to address their criminogenic and clinical needs, and to improve their functioning and well-being. MI can also help treatment court team members to communicate effectively and respectfully with the offenders, to provide feedback and guidance, and to celebrate their progress and graduation.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?