Five specialized dockets became the first in the state to receive final certification Friday from the Commission on Specialized Dockets.

The specialized dockets include:

• Ashtabula County Common Pleas Drug Court
• Clermont County Municipal OVI Court
• Columbiana County Municipal Mental Health Court—STAR Program
• Franklin County Family Drug Court
• Licking County Common Pleas Drug Court—CIA Program

In November, the Ohio Supreme Court adopted rules that outlined the specialized docket certification procedures to include submitting an application, undergoing a site visit, and forwarding specific program materials to the Specialized Dockets Section as part of the certification process.

By January 1, 2014, Ohio courts that operate specialized docket programs will be required to be initially certified by the Supreme Court.

The 22-member commission advises the Supreme Court and its staff regarding the promotion of statewide rules and uniform standards concerning specialized dockets in Ohio courts; the development and delivery of specialized docket services to Ohio courts; and the creation of training programs for judges and court personnel. The commission makes all decisions regarding final certification.