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Mothers who use opioids (MWUO) and involved in the criminal justice system are faced with losing child custody if they continue to use drugs, but lack of resources inhibit sustained recovery post-incarceration. A transformative justice approach promotes social and structural transformation. Longitudinal qualitative data from 16 MWUO are examined using grounded theory analysis. Our aim is to identify strategic solutions focusing on social environments and structural barriers to sustained recovery. Findings support a transformative justice model to reduce recidivism, increase sustained recovery, and help mothers remain or reunite with their children. Read the transcript Watch the video on Vimeo ©2025 Society for applied anthropology Mothers who use opioids and are criminal justice involved are at risk of losing child custody rights if they relapse. In this article we use a transformative justice lens to identify the social and structural barriers that must be addressed for family preservation. We propose a “Personal Probation Officer” model to help these women navigate the maze of drug treatment, social services, and other resources they need toward the goal of reducing relapse and further separation from their children. A transformative justice response to mothers who use opioids and involved in the criminal justice system can reduce relapse to help mothers reunite with their children.

_eprint: https://doi.org/10.1080/00187259.2025.2516614