While racial, ethnic, gender, and other disparities persist in the justice system, treatment courts present a unique opportunity to tackle these issues head-on. In the newest installment of “Standards of Justice,” host Chris Deutsch sits down with Rachel Lindley, the director of diversity, equity and inclusion at the Maryland Office of the Public Defender.

Rachel has trained treatment courts across the country and offers an invaluable perspective on how to approach Standard II: Equity and Inclusion. She lays out the first steps toward understanding how it relates to your program, offers guidance on having uncomfortable conversations in a safe and judgment-free way, and explains why equity and inclusion is an ongoing journey.

Ultimately, this conversation is about how treatment courts can ensure equitable access, retention, and program completion for all.