In the midst of the opioid epidemic and rising rates of substance abuse, an innovative court model is offering hope and healing for families torn apart by addiction. Family drug and alcohol courts (FDACs) provide a compassionate, treatment-focused approach that is proving far more effective than traditional care proceedings at safely reuniting parents and children.
The FDAC Difference: Rebuilding Families Through Recovery
Unlike standard family courts, FDACs recognize that substance use disorders are a disease requiring intensive treatment, not a moral failing or lack of love for one’s children. The specialized courts bring together judges, social workers, treatment professionals, and other support services to help parents access the resources they need to achieve and sustain recovery.
The results speak for themselves. A 2023 national evaluation found that when families participated in FDAC proceedings:
- Children were 4 times more likely to be reunited with their parents compared to similar families in traditional care proceedings
- Parents were more engaged in treatment and committed to recovery, with frequent drug testing and court check-ins to monitor progress
- There were lower rates of repeat maltreatment and children re-entering foster care thanks to the intensive support FDAC families receive
The FDAC process gives you the coping mechanisms and the tools to become stronger in your recovery…If I didn’t have FDAC I don’t think I’d be here today. They helped me so much and now I’ve got my son back in my life.
Sarah, FDAC graduate who reunited with her son
A Model For Lasting Change
Pioneered in London in 2008 by the late Judge Nicholas Crichton, the FDAC model has steadily expanded its reach over the past 15 years. There are currently 13 FDAC teams serving families across England, with several new sites launching in 2025.
The growth of FDACs reflects a larger shift toward problem-solving approaches in the justice system. By addressing the root causes that bring families into court—like substance abuse, mental illness, and domestic violence—these specialized courts aim to provide lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.
Family-Centered Justice In Action
For the hundreds of parents and children who have been through the FDAC process, the impact is profound and personal. Rather than punishment and judgment, they found genuine compassion and practical help.
This court has been the only thing in my life that’s given me a second chance, you know? Without this, my son would’ve just been taken off me and I would’ve been left to fend for myself…They helped me through my recovery and to prove I can be a good mum again.
Emma, FDAC participant who overcame heroin addiction
Critics argue FDACs are too expensive and resource-intensive compared to regular care proceedings. But proponents say the improved outcomes and reduced need for long-term foster care placements actually save money over time. More importantly, they transform lives and keep families together.
A Harm Reduction Approach For The Whole Family
At its core, the FDAC model represents a harm reduction approach to child welfare. Rather than insisting on perfect abstinence from drugs or alcohol, it focuses on stability, safety, and making positive changes. Parents have a chance to show they can maintain recovery and provide a healthy home, with a built-in support system cheering them on.
FDACs are founded on a belief in redemption…And we absolutely help parents get into treatment quickly. But I think the most important intervention is restoring a sense of hope and a belief in themselves.
Dr. Jo Foster, FDAC clinical lead
Of course, not every story has a happy ending. Even with the extra support of FDAC teams, some parents are ultimately unable to overcome their substance use disorders and create a safe environment for their children. When family reunification is not possible, the court process still aims to maintain parent-child relationships through regular contact.
Expansion and Early Intervention
As promising as FDACs have been, advocates say they are only reaching a fraction of the families who could benefit. Many are calling for a major expansion of the courts nationwide and adjustments to the referral process to get parents help even sooner.
Currently, most FDAC cases are not initiated until local authorities have already determined children must be removed from the home. An earlier intervention approach could potentially prevent the need for removals at all by identifying high-risk families and providing treatment and services upfront.
Hope and Healing For Families Facing Addiction
Ultimately, the success and growth of family drug and alcohol courts is a testament to the power of compassion, science, and innovative problem-solving. By treating addiction as a public health issue, providing intensive support and accountability, and keeping children’s best interests at the center, FDACs are reuniting families and helping parents achieve lasting recovery.
If you had asked me a few years ago, I never would have believed I could get my life back on track and have my daughter home with me. FDAC didn’t give up on me even when I wanted to give up on myself. They gave me a reason to keep going. I’ll always be grateful for that.
Natalie, FDAC graduate
As tens of thousands of families continue to be shattered by substance use disorders each year, the FDAC model offers a glimmer of hope and a roadmap to a better way. By helping more parents access treatment, maintain recovery, and forge strong bonds with their children, we can break generational cycles of trauma and give more families the chance to heal together.
