Judge Layla Zon: What is Resource Court and A Glimpse Behind the Gavel – Episode 41

Welcome to The Town Square Podcast, where we bring together diverse voices from Newton County to engage in the "messy middle" of community discussions. Your hosts, Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall, invite local leaders to share their insights and offer their perspectives on how we can work toward unity, not uniformity. In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with the Honorable Layla Zon, Superior Court Judge for the Alcovy Judicial Circuit, and dive deep into the crucial work she’s doing in our community.

Highlights of the Conversation:

In this episode, we begin by sharing some good news—because who doesn't need some? Trey reminisces about an amazing fundraiser event he attended at Piedmont Newton, complete with 90s hip-hop hits and a lively crowd. Meanwhile, Judge Zon shares a personal story about her father’s ongoing battle with cancer and the uplifting news that he is now in remission. 

But of course, we don’t stop there. The real heart of the conversation revolves around Judge Zon’s passion for resource courts, which she presides over in Newton County. The resource court, also known as mental health court, is a vital part of the judicial system that doesn’t just focus on punishment, but rather rehabilitation and second chances. Judge Zon breaks down how this program works, explaining how it offers holistic support for individuals dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues.

The Power of Resource Court:

Judge Zon talks about her experience running the resource court, a program designed to help individuals suffering from substance abuse and mental health disorders regain their lives. This is not your typical court session. It's a transformative process that focuses on healing and rehabilitation—participants get hands-on support from a team of professionals who work with them on everything from addiction treatment to job placement, and even helping them regain custody of their children. 

One of the most rewarding parts of this program is seeing participants move through four phases of recovery and eventually graduate from the program. Judge Zon and her team work with participants for two to four years, providing not only accountability but real-life solutions and a fresh start. 

The accountability courts in Georgia, including veterans’ courts, parental accountability courts, and more, are seen as a national model for successful rehabilitation programs. Judge Zon highlights the importance of providing a holistic approach, addressing the root causes of substance abuse and mental health struggles while offering hope, community support, and resources to help people rebuild their lives.

Judge Zon also stresses the financial efficiency of these programs, with costs of $3,000–$5,000 per participant per year—far less than the $19,000 it costs to incarcerate an individual. These programs not only help individuals but also save taxpayer money, reduce recidivism, and provide lasting change.

From Adversaries to Allies: 

What really sets resource courts apart is the collaborative approach. In traditional court settings, prosecutors and defense attorneys are adversaries. But in resource courts, they sit side by side, working toward a common goal: the success and rehabilitation of the participants. This unique approach encourages a sense of community in the courtroom, and Judge Zon shares how it feels to be part of such a rewarding process. 

Judge Zon shares some memorable success stories of participants who’ve turned their lives around thanks to the program. One individual, who was once facing a long road to recovery, is now not only sober but is also giving back by helping others who are in the same position he once was.

What’s Next for Judge Zon?

When asked about her future plans, Judge Zon mentioned her love for her current role and how she’s content focusing on making a difference in the community through her work with the resource courts. She also shared her passion for gardening, with a side hobby of making pepper jams and hot sauces—not the usual career highlight, but a fun insight into her life outside of the courtroom!

Judge Zon’s legacy, shaped by her dedication to justice and compassion, is one that will resonate in Newton County for years to come. 
 

A Word From Our Sponsors

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We hope you enjoy this insightful conversation with Judge Layla Zon. If you haven't already, be sure to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and don't forget to leave us a rating or review—your feedback means the world to us! Also, if you're enjoying the Town Square Podcast, please consider making a one-time donation or small monthly contribution to support the show and keep these important conversations going. You can donate easily through our website at thetownsquarepodcast.com/donate.

Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on The Town Square Podcast.