Understanding how the criminal legal system affects recovery from opioid use disorder

Examining the Impact of the Criminal Legal System on Opioid Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery: A Socioecological Perspective

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11092254

This study looks at how the legal system affects people with opioid use disorder and their recovery, especially in communities hit hard by the opioid crisis, and it invites participants to share their personal stories through photos to help us understand their experiences better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092254 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the criminal legal system in the treatment and recovery of individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). It employs a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative analysis of community experiences and social network influences on treatment completion. By focusing on communities heavily impacted by the opioid epidemic, the study aims to uncover both the supportive and potentially harmful effects of legal system involvement on recovery. Participants will share their experiences through Photovoice, allowing for a deeper understanding of the socioecological factors at play.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with opioid use disorder who have had interactions with the criminal legal system, particularly those living in communities affected by the opioid crisis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or have not interacted with the criminal legal system may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and support systems for individuals with opioid use disorder who are involved with the criminal legal system.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the intersection of legal systems and substance use can lead to significant improvements in treatment outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.