Community courts are neighborhood-focused courts that attempt to harness the power of the justice system to address local problems. They can take many forms, but all focus on creative partnerships and problem solving. They strive to create new relationships, both within the justice system and with outside stakeholders such as residents, merchants, churches and schools. And they test new and aggressive approaches to public safety rather than merely responding to crime after it has occurred. The first community court in the country was the Midtown Community Court, launched in 1993 in New York City. Several dozen community courts, inspired by the Midtown model, are in operation or planning around the country; click here for a list of active courts. International interest in community courts is also increasing. For example, the British government has created a dozen community courts, building on the New York model. Seventeen community court projects are already in operation in South Africa, and community justice projects recently opened in Australia and Canada.

Drug Czar Gil Kerlikowske

The Latest on Community Justice

• San Francisco community court on solid ground.
• Drug Czar Gil Kerlikowske tours the Red Hook Community Justice Center.
• "Broken Windows" author on the role community courts play in reducing crime.
• Newark Mayor Cory Booker announces plans for a community court.
• USA Today on the growth of community courts.
• New York Times briefing on community justice.
• Vancouver community court turns lives around.

Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance Jr. ran on a platform that emphasized his support of community justice. In the days following his election, he moved to introduce community prosecution principles into the DA's office. He also spoke out about his support for projects like the Harlem Community Justice Center that attempt to solve neighborhood problems. In this podcast, Vance talks about reentry and the importance of not just responding after crime occurs but investing in prevention.

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