Through a comprehensive, holistic approach, the program supports participants who are ready to begin a lasting recovery from substance use disorders. The 26th Judicial District Recovery Court (26th JDRC) was established in 2003 by Judge Donald H. Allen in Circuit Court Division II to provide a structured, treatment-based alternative to incarceration for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Since its inception, the program has expanded significantly through sustained funding and competitive grant awards. Notably, the court received a Department of Justice grant dedicated to Family-Centered Services, allowing the program to provide targeted support to participants and their families—addressing the broader impact of addiction on child well-being and family stability. The 26th JDRC later in 2022 secured a Treatment Court grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and has continued to receive ongoing funding and certification from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) as a state-recognized recovery court. In 2015, Judge Kyle Atkins of Circuit Court Division III joined the initiative, expanding access to Recovery Court for eligible defendants in his courtroom. Both Judge Allen and Judge Atkins remain deeply committed to improving public safety and community wellness by connecting justice-involved individuals to effective, long-term recovery resources. Our Mission
The mission of the 26th Judicial District Recovery Court is to break the cycle of substance use and criminal behavior by equipping participants with the tools, accountability, and structure they need to become sober, law-abiding, and productive members of society. Program Overview
Through:
• Evidence-based treatment
• Frequent and random drug testing
• Intensive court supervision
• Individualized case management and community-based services
…the Recovery Court works to reduce recidivism, relieve jail overcrowding, and promote a healthier, safer community across the 26th Judicial District. Qualifying Factors
Participants must meet the following criteria:
• Adult (18 or older)
• Resident of the 26th Judicial District (Madison, Henderson, or Chester counties)
• Diagnosed substance use disorder
• Charged with or convicted of a felony, misdemeanor, or violation of probation
Disqualifying Factors
Applicants may be disqualified for:
• Drug trafficking charges
• Weapons-related convictions
• Registered s*x offender status
• Violent offenses (reviewed on a case-by-case basis)
Referral Sources
Referrals to the Recovery Court may come from:
• Judges
• District Attorneys
• Public Defenders
• Private Defense Attorneys
• State Probation or Community Corrections Officers
• Justice-involved individuals (self-referrals are welcome)
Program Phases
Phase 1 – Stabilization & Treatment
The initial phase focuses entirely on treatment and stabilization. Participants engage in clinical services, assessments, and begin working with their case managers. Phases 2–4 – Building Structure & Accountability
Participants receive support to obtain employment and access community-based services. Participants collaborate with staff to develop a sober living plan and begin building stability. Phase 5 – Relapse Prevention & Reentry Planning
The final phase emphasizes long-term recovery, relapse prevention, and the development of a detailed aftercare plan to support continued success beyond the program.
