CHW works with the County Court system, Local Law enforcement, District Attorney and Public Defenders Office in operating a Mental Health Court. Mental health court is offered as an alternative to traditional courts to a defendants with mental illness. Participation is strictly voluntary. There are no trials; individuals are required to plead guilty in return for alternative sentencing. They must also agree to follow a plan of treatment. The actual court proceedings often operate in a very positive, constructive manner, supporting the individual as small successes are achieved, making adjustments as necessary, and setting up next steps. The idea is to preserve public safety while reducing the number of mentally ill inmates in jails. Many individuals also have substance use disorders. Mental health treatment along with housing, drug addiction as well as employment and education are addressed. Each piece of the equation is important for individual’s to gain stability in their lives and stay out of the justice system. If completion is successful, often the initial charges are dismissed from the individual’s record.
CHW’s has a designated MH Court Coordinator. This clinician’s primary role involves the initial assessment and diagnosis of the individual to determine eligibility, the development of a recommended MH care plan, the provision and coordination of ongoing services, and the coordination and reporting to the courts and other involved partners.
Referrals generally occur through local law enforcement, the DA’s office or by request of the Public Defender’s Office. Often the CHW designated MH Court Therapist can assist in facilitating a referral.