Burning the Midnight Oil: An Examination of Cook County's Night Drug Court

This article examines changes that occurred in Cook County, Illinois, Circuit Court as a result of the establishment of night courts dedicated to processing drug cases. The night courts were presided over by judges new to circuit court, and strict case management controls were imposed. These changes helped to break down prevailing norms that supported delay in the disposition of drug cases. Following the creation of the night drug courts, processing time was reduced in drug cases and, to a lesser extent, in nondrug felonies as well. Sentencing in drug cases became more lenient. In addition, fewer trials occurred, and fewer defendants were represented by private attorneys.