Justice Means More than Punishment.

...it means understanding the causes of crime and helping people find their way to stability, hope, and a crime-free future.

We work alongside our community and the Specialty Court programs to empower individuals who find themselves in the Municipal Court system to make positive life changes and to break the cycle of recidivism.

  • The Kansas City Municipal Court handles various ordinance violations and, through its Specialty Court Programs, offers alternatives to jail.

  • The Specialty Court Programs connect defendants with tools and resources to help them successfully reintegrate into society.

  • The main goal is to reduce repeat offenses and improve participants’ overall quality of life.

Specialty Courts and Beyond the Bench KC

The mission of the Specialty Courts is to address the behavioral health issues of individuals in the criminal justice system through therapeutic interventions, referrals to community partners and the monitoring of participation in follow-up services thereby enhancing public safety.

Services Offered:

  • Referral to qualified agencies that provide individual and group counseling
  • Assistance with housing placement
  • Assistance with employment opportunities
  • Medical resources
  • Transportation assistance
  • Ongoing monitoring and support throughout the program
Judge Courtney Wachal smiles from behind a podium while a Wellness Court graduate raises her hand while smiling

Beyond the Bench KC exists to promote awareness and community support for the Specialty Courts’ rehabilitative mission. We are guided by the belief that true justice involves addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and paving the way for lasting, positive change.

Judge Courtney Wachal smiles behind a podium with a graduate of the Kansas City Wellness Court
A Kansas City Wellness Court graduate stands behind a podium
Three men stand behind a podium during Kansas City Wellness Court graduation

Kansas City Specialty Courts

Wellness Specialty Court

The Wellness Specialty Court services anyone with a treatment need, and includes a Women's Court track.

About Wellness Court >

Domestic Violence Court

This docket is an intensely supervised probation process and often includes treatment referrals within the community.

About Domestic Violence Court >

Veterans Specialty Court

This court partners with the VA to refer veterans who have substance use and/or mental health disorders to treatment.

About Veterans Court >

Truancy Court

This docket provides the opportunity for parents to break down any barriers that prevent compliance.

About Truancy Court >

Housing Court

Housing Court addresses property code violations affecting the health, safety and welfare of neighborhoods.

About Housing Court >
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Help Create a Better Kansas City

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