'Recovery Court' Graduates In Essex County Celebrate Personal Milestones Against Addiction

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A new wave of “recovery court” graduates have reached a big milestone in Essex County.

The Essex Vicinage held its latest recovery court graduation ceremony on Aug. 13 at the Leroy Smith Building in Newark.

According to court administrators, the program allows non-violent offenders the chance to avoid prison time if they successfully complete rehabilitation and recovery for drug and/or alcohol abuse.

The program requires completion of several phases of intensive treatment and recovery. Participants are expected to comply with all treatment recommendations, attend support meetings, gain employment and demonstrate payment of fines.

Last week, another nine people who have maintained recovery from drugs and alcohol were honored at the Essex County graduation ceremony.

The graduates shared their experiences of “strength and hope” at a ceremony attended by their family members and friends. Current recovery court participants – of which there are more than 200 – also attended the event.

• See Related: NJ 'Drug Court' Helps Hundreds Turn Lives Around, Avoid Jail

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