This episode of Justice Speaks continues our series featuring leaders who have made a significant impact on the justice system through treatment courts and community supervision. This episode is sponsored by OpAns

We are joined by the Honorable Alan Blankenship, a judge from Missouri, known for his extensive work in Missouri treatment courts, including adult drug courts, DWI courts, and veterans treatment courts. Judge Blankenship shares his professional journey from Certified Public Accountant to attorney and, ultimately, to a respected judicial leader. His experiences provide unique insights into the administrative and operational aspects of specialized courts.

Judge Blankenship’s engagement with treatment courts began in 2004 with the creation of an adult drug court in Stone County, Missouri. Inspired by successful examples from other jurisdictions, he became a strong advocate for specialized courts addressing substance use disorders. Over the years, his leadership expanded these efforts to include a DWI court in 2010 and a veterans treatment court in 2013, each designed to meet the distinct needs of participants while supporting rehabilitation and community safety.

Focusing specifically on veterans, Judge Blankenship highlights positive outcomes for participants and their families. These programs provide structured, evidence-based support tailored to veterans transitioning back into civilian life, emphasizing accountability and long-term success.

Missouri’s treatment court system receives an annual allocation of $11 million, overseen by a statutory commission on which Judge Blankenship serves. He discusses the importance of rigorous drug and alcohol testing, conducted an average of 2.5 times per week using randomized protocols, ensuring participant accountability and program integrity.

Judge Blankenship outlines the growth of Missouri treatment courts, which now include adult, sobriety, veterans, mental health, and family drug court models. He stresses the value of continuous professional training and adherence to evidence-based best practices, noting how Missouri has shifted from punitive approaches to more rehabilitative, data-driven strategies proven to improve outcomes.

Under Judge Blankenship’s leadership, his court has been designated a mentor court four times, hosting teams from multiple states eager to learn proven techniques and strategies. He emphasizes the importance of sustainability, highlighting his successful transition of leadership after two decades of service.

Looking ahead, Judge Blankenship anticipates further innovation driven by research, technology, and evidence-based methods. He notes that these approaches will continue to enhance effectiveness, ensure taxpayer value, and expand access to justice.

Reflecting on his career, Judge Blankenship credits Missouri treatment courts with shaping his perspective on substance dependency and justice reform. His message underscores the importance of collaboration, innovation, and data-driven decision-making to advance the future of treatment courts nationwide.

We thank Judge Alan Blankenship for sharing his insights and experiences on Justice Speaks. We also extend our gratitude to OpAns for sponsoring this podcast episode.

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