There has been a growing cry for criminal justice and police reform in the United States. Sending a convicted criminal to prison is costly and has not been shown to be effective at reducing repeat offenses. What’s worse, it often perpetuates criminal activity by putting a label that can make finding decent work and housing difficult for those who serve time. A common concern expressed by those new to the conversation is what sentences are appropriate for offenders who have been convicted if incarceration is taken off the table. Luckily, there has been a plethora of research into alternative sentencing options to determine which ones work.

1. Psychological Intervention

Mental health courts have proven to be an extremely effective method of dealing with offenders who are suffering from a psychological condition. They can prescribe treatment ranging from online anger management courses to an in-patient therapy program. Because they address the root cause of criminal activity, they have a much lower recidivism rate than the prison system. All staff involved must have a commitment to the process in order for a system of psychological intervention to work.

2. Drug Rehabilitation

In cases where drug abuse is present, rehabilitation is often the best path forward. There are numerous in-prison drug treatment programs that can be used during the sentencing process. Prison overcrowding and the abundance of banned substances within correctional facilities make this less effective than rehab. As a result, outpatient drug rehabilitation programs have become a viable sentencing option for many court systems.

3. Restorative Justice

As its name suggests, restorative justice works to address the entire community impacted by a crime. It allows victims and offenders to heal through discussions and addressing the harm caused by the crime committed. It encourages participation by all parties involved and the reintegration of offenders into productive roles within the community.

As criminal justice reform moves forward, more alternatives will likely emerge. For now, psychological interventions, rehabilitation programs and efforts to restore community are important and effective alternatives to prison sentences in many cases.…

Lately, it feels like any subject you hear about on the news divides groups into “us” and “them.” The list of controversial topics has grown to include the environment, religion, and guns, and now a pandemic is creating a new divide within communities. The life-or-death nature of this latest wedge issue demonstrates the vital need for more moderate politics in this country. But where can you start?

Get To Know Local Politics

Get involved with the government at the local level. Typically, local issues, such as where to put a new traffic signal or whether there is enough money in the city budget to paint the water tower every year, tend to be less divisive. Plus, generally speaking, it’s more difficult to violently disagree with other people when you have to see them at church on Sunday or at your children’s soccer game. By working to increase dialogue within your community, you can develop the skills needed to take on more complicated issues at the state or national level.

Research and Join Moderate Groups

As the two major parties have developed schisms and moved to the left and right, more moderate political organizations have begun to emerge. Do the research and see which have active chapters near you and attend a meeting. If it doesn’t feel right, check out other groups until you find one that is right for you. With more than a third of the country identifying as moderate, you are bound to find a group you fell feel is a good fit for you.

Taking these two simple steps can help you find more voices like yours: people who want to be able to have conversations with the right and with the left to identify solutions to the problems facing our country, instead of fighting for fighting’s sake. Helping groups that hold your moderate beliefs increase membership is a good way to combat the extremist attitudes that are hurting our society.…

Family problems during a split-up are some of the most anguishing that someone can experience. When matters start to get out of hand, it’s wise to consult an attorney. Here are several situations in which you may need the expertise of a professional so that your issues can be solved and you can move on with your life.

 

Dividing Property During a Divorce

When you have to file for divorce, or if you’re in the middle of one, dividing up your property sometimes can’t be done amicably. Calling on your divorce lawyer Hernando County FL can take the headache away and end the arguments. Arrangements that work for both parties will be made for the distribution of assets, avoiding any further conflict.

 

Child Custody or Visitation

One of the most difficult parts of a separation or divorce is when children are involved. Deciding child custody and a visitation schedule can be extremely emotional. A family attorney will look at your situation, explain your rights and the court will make decisions that are best for the children involved.

 

Child and Spousal Support

Sometimes during a divorce, the question of financial support comes up. Child support needs to be paid out and in certain circumstances, spousal support, or alimony, may be collected. You should see a lawyer to find out about your options. It will then go to court for a decision.

 

Abuse Cases

The worst cases that can go before a judge are those involving abuse. You want to make sure you have the best counsel you can get in any domestic abuse case. A lot is at stake and the important thing is ending the pain and prosecuting the offender.

 

Resolving Difficult Situations

Almost every case that goes to family court is an unpleasant one. That’s why these matters cannot be taken on alone. Trusting a reputable lawyer to see you through this time will be one of the smartest decisions you ever make.…