Photos: Seeking hope in re-entry court

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Hope Court participant, Marvin Simpson tests a newly built e-cigarette that he assembled at Primal Vapes in South Anchorage on November 4, 2015. Simpson, 44, who is on parole after serving nearly two decades in jail for dealing drugs, assault and drunk driving, says he’s turned his life around for his fiancé and three kids, and, he says he’s gained the trust of his new boss.

After four months of unconventional court proceedings, Marvin Simpson says the more stringent but personal tone of an experimental federal court for former prisoners has kept him grounded and focused on what's most important.

"I work 10 hours a day. If I'm not at work, I'm around my family," said Simpson, 44. "My circle of friends has shrunk to where I'm around positive people who have a lot to offer me; people with substance. My fiancee is supportive, and my three kids are happy their father is around.

"The kinds of things I choose to do are more family-oriented."

Simpson is part of a small group involved in a pilot project that began in May. It's called Hope Court, a re-entry court for federal offenders -- a first for federal court here. Similar courts have existed at the state level for years.

The U.S. District Court in Alaska set up the Alaska Hope Court May 29. The first session was in July.

Re-entry courts closely manage people after they are released from prison using court authority. It's like a team of guidance counselors for felons who are trying to re-establish their community ties. That includes ensuring participants enroll in substance abuse or mental health treatment and helping them meet essential needs like housing and employment.

READ MORE: Seeking hope -- Federal offenders take part in new Alaska re-entry court