RENO, Nev. — The Reno Justice Court is proud to announce the expansion of its Specialty Court programming through the launch of a Multi-Track DUI Court, an initiative supported by a $120,077 federal grant from the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Multi-Track DUI Court will offer four different tracks of varying supervision and treatment to support and rehabilitate first and second-time DUI offenders based on their individualized risk and needs. By tailoring services to each participant (individualized treatment, education, and monitoring) the program seeks to reduce repeat offenses, promote long-term recovery, and make Reno’s roads safer for everyone.
The program aligns with Nevada’s Zero Fatalities traffic safety goal and supports national evidence-based strategies to prevent impaired driving. The Court’s objectives include increasing access to case management and treatment for first- and second-time DUI offenders in order to reduce DUI-related crashes, injuries, and deaths through early intervention. Within the first year the program aims to serve at least 50 participants.
What makes the program unique is the tailored service intervention and supervision. Participants in the Multi-Track DUI Court will work closely with a dedicated case manager who provides guidance, connects them with treatment and community resources, and ensures accountability through regular drug and alcohol testing, monitoring by law enforcement, court appearances, and compliance reviews. The Court team includes the judge, clinicians, a case manager, a probation officer, prosecutors, public defenders, and a program coordinator.
“Typically, DUI offenders do not get the treatment or supervision they require until their 3rd DUI, when they are facing prison time. The aim of this program is to ensure every DUI offender that enters Reno Justice Court gets individualized treatment and is held accountable in ways that they need, so that we can prevent further instances of driving while under the influence.” Said Emily Ruff, Program Coordinator for the Reno Justice Specialty Courts. “Our hope is that Nevada’s roadways become safer with this program.”
This initiative demonstrates Reno Justice Court’s continued commitment to innovative, evidence-based approaches that balance accountability with compassion—creating safer roads, healthier families, and stronger communities.
Funding provided in part by the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety and the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Contact:
Emily Ruff, Program Coordinator
Reno Justice Court Specialty Courts
Email: eruff@washoecounty.gov
Phone: (775)-325-6532
