The missions of a DUI court, a drug court, and a court that hears both DUI and drug cases are nearly interchangeable. Offender accountability is key in every case, as are the goals to change offender behavior, eliminate substance abuse, end recidivism, and treat victims with fairness and sensitivity.
Distinctions do arise in a couple of areas.
First, drug courts must strive to give drug offenders the means to become productive members of society. DUI offenders, on the other hand, are often productive in spite of their alcohol abuse. They already have jobs, families, and homes, and the goal becomes more one of providing the tools they need to keep what they have. Second, although both courts must endeavor to educate the public about the benefit of these systems for the communities they serve, proving their case can be a greater challenge for the DUI community. Fewer people believe that treatment will solve the DUI problem.