Overview
The 61st District Court offers Problem-Solving Court programs that give participants a supportive pathway to address substance use, mental health, and other underlying challenges. These programs focus on treatment and recovery to help participants build healthier and more stable lives.
Problem-Solving Courts are voluntary, personalized and structured programs that last between 15 and 24 months. Each program is made up of phases that include regular court check-ins, treatment services, drug and alcohol testing, and ongoing support from a dedicated team. Participants also work with community partners, peer support, and recovery resources to strengthen long-term success.
Through these efforts, participants are supported in achieving personal goals, improving health and wellness, and successfully reintegrating into the community.
The 61st District Court currently operates the following specialized programs:
How to get started: If you are interested in a referral, start by speaking with your attorney. You may also contact the probation department for information about eligibility and the referral process.
Our Programs
Felony Sobriety Court
- For high-risk individuals charged with a felony OWI 3rd.
- Provides intensive supervision, treatment, and monitoring.
- Presiding Chief Judge Angela T. Ross
- Probation Officer: Ashley Agnew
- Email: ashley.agnew@grcourt.org
- Phone: 616-632-5631
Misdemeanor Sobriety Court
- For high-risk individuals with repeat misdemeanor offenses directly related to substance use disorder (example: OWI 2nd).
- Focuses on rehabilitation, treatment, and reducing repeat offenses.
- Presiding Judge Nicholas S. Ayoub
- Probation Officer: Michelle Edwards
- Email: michelle.edwards@grcourt.org
- Phone: 616-632-5607
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Drug Treatment Court
- For high-risk individuals with substance use disorder who are facing qualifying offenses that can be directly linked to their SUD.
- Connects participants with community-based recovery support and treatment providers.
- Presiding Judge Michael J. Distel
- Probation Officer: Jackie Morris
- Email: jacqulyn.morris@grcourt.org
- Phone: 616-632-5633
Domestic Violence Court
- For individuals with qualifying cases involving intimate partner violence as determined by the prosecutor’s office.
- Focuses on accountability, treatment, and reducing future harm.
- Presiding Judge Jennifer L. Faber
- Probation Officer: Natalie Thomas
- Email: natalie.thomas@grcourt.org
- Phone: 616-632-5632
What to Expect in Treatment Court (Sobriety Court and Drug Court)
Problem-Solving Court is structured and active. Participants should expect regular check-ins, treatment requirements, and frequent accountability measures.
Common elements include:
- A five-phase structure designed to last 15 to 24 months, based on individual progress
- Regular court review hearings (often more frequent early in the program)
- Drug and alcohol testing as required
- Support from a team that includes the judge, probation/case management, a clinical liaison, prosecutor/defense roles, and peer recovery support