Why Judge-Supervised Drug Sentencing Is a Step Forward in Criminal Justice Reform

As criminal defence solicitors, we welcome the recent expansion of judge-supervised drug and alcohol treatment sentences, following the successful pilot of Intensive Supervision Courts in England and Wales.

These programmes, designed to support rather than simply punish, represent a transformative shift in how the justice system deals with addiction-related offences.

Instead of sending vulnerable individuals straight to prison, these court-ordered programmes allow certain offenders to remain in the community under close judicial supervision.

The individual must meet with a judge weekly or monthly, undergo regular testing, attend treatment, and engage with probation and recovery services. Failure to comply can still lead to imprisonment, but the emphasis is now on rehabilitation over retribution.

Understanding Intensive Supervision Courts

Modelled after “problem-solving courts” in Texas in the US, this system is built around the idea that addiction and criminal behaviour are often deeply intertwined.

By offering structured treatment with judicial oversight, these courts aim to address the root causes of offending rather than simply punish the symptoms.

One recent case involves 28-year-old Kane Lawrenson, who narrowly avoided a prison sentence at Bristol Crown Court after pleading guilty to a violent offence.

Instead, he was placed on a two-year intensive drug treatment programme, requiring regular progress checks with Judge Moira Macmillan.

Encouragingly, Kane recently received a glowing report — a positive sign of how effective this approach can be when the right support is in place.

The Legal Perspective: A Tough But Fair Option

As defence lawyers, we often see the cycle of addiction and imprisonment repeated unnecessarily.

For many of our clients, substance misuse is a major factor in their offending behaviour. Traditional sentencing, particularly short-term imprisonment, rarely offers the long-term solutions these individuals need.

Intensive Supervision Courts offer a more holistic approach — but they are not an easy option. In many ways, they can be more demanding than prison.

Offenders must demonstrate ongoing commitment to their recovery, undergo regular drug and alcohol testing, attend counselling, and engage with the court on a routine basis. This daily accountability can be daunting, especially for those with complex mental health needs.

Who Is Eligible?

These sentences are not suitable for everyone. They are currently reserved for a carefully selected group of offenders who show genuine potential for rehabilitation and who are willing to engage with structured support.

As criminal defence solicitors, we play a vital role in helping clients access these alternative sentencing options by presenting detailed mitigation and evidence of their commitment to change.

Reducing Reoffending and Relieving Pressure on Prisons

With prison overcrowding at crisis levels, these alternative sentencing models offer both a practical and compassionate solution.

Prisons Minister Lord Timpson has acknowledged that the programme is “often tougher than going to prison” and has confirmed plans to expand the scheme across more Crown Courts nationwide.

Ultimately, these reforms offer real hope for a smarter, more effective justice system — one that supports rehabilitation, protects the public, and ensures fair sentencing.

As legal professionals, we fully support this progressive shift in sentencing policy and will continue to advocate for clients who can benefit from structured recovery over spending time in prison.

How We Can Help

If you have any questions or concerns regarding charges relating to any drugs offences, then our team of experts are on-hand to answer your questions. Call us 0161 477 1121 or Message Us to speak to one of our team.