Mental Health Court is a non-diversionary specialty court. It takes place once a defendant is placed on probation. Defendants with probation eligible charges apply and (if accepted) are transferred to and then sentenced by the presiding Mental Health Court Judge. A set of particular conditions are assigned to the defendant along with a team of support professionals who assist and monitor their progress.
Compliance hearings are held to monitor the defendant’s progress. Positive progress is rewarded with recognition and extended time between hearings to appear. Lack of positive progress is responded to with increased support, increased restrictions and shorter times between court appearances.
After specific objectives are achieved by the defendant and substantial compliance has been observed by the court, participants become eligible for graduation.
