In this week’s discussions, you considered some of the issues surrounding the implementation of mental health courts. For this assignment, you have been hired to work on a proposal for a mental health court for your county.
Broward County, Florida, was a pioneer in this field, and studies of their system have been published. A search of the SUO library should begin there. Also, organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association and Mental Health America have published position papers on the topic. A 2006 study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) can provide needed background on incarcerated inmates with mental issues.
Using appropriate research, prepare a 4-6 page report in Microsoft Word that addresses the following points:
Last, if your county were to adopt or expand this model, the professionals involved in its implementation will need guidance. Conclude your report with guidelines and procedures for police, prosecutors, and public defenders. For example, how should police training be modified to help officers recognize mental health issues? What criteria should prosecutors use when deciding whether to divert a case? Use these questions as the beginning of this section.