The introduction of a drug court in Malta

Abstract

The thesis focuses on the theme of the Drug Court by providing an overview of its intrinsic nature and principles. The thesis refers principally to the system in the United States of America, the place of origin of the concept, and the United Kingdom. It also touches on Drug Courts in other states. It then utilises the comparison to justify the introduction of the Drug Court in Malta. The thesis is divided into four chapters. The first gives a brief historical overview of the events that led to the development of a Drug Court both far a field and in Malta. The second chapter sets off by providing an indication of the nature and principles inherent in a Drug Court. It portrays the Drug Court process in the United States and that of the Drug Court pilots present in England and Wales. Brief reference to other Drug Courts is made. The second chapter then moves on to examine the impact and effectiveness of the Drug Court, ending by pointing out the disadvantages of the Drug Court programme. The third chapter shifts to the legislative and procedural system employed in Malta with particular reference to relevant Acts and Ordinances. The probation services and other treatment entities are also dealt with. Such a chapter ends by bringing to light some disadvantages in the current system. The final chapter makes suggestions for reform. It discusses the relevance of the introduction of the Drug Court in Malta. Reference to systems proposed by reports and parliamentary debates is made. The concluding chapter also discusses the Court's jurisdiction, procedure, functions and staff required. Ideas for the structure and accommodation are provided. It gives importance to sanctions and alternatives to imprisonment which would play a major role in sentence given. Finally, the last chapter discusses the implementation problems keeping the Drug Court from being set up together with ideas to overcome them.