Mental Health Court Support Services
The Mental Health Court Support Program is available to assist individuals with a mental health issue who come into contact with the criminal justice system.
This program is provided in cooperation with the office of the Crown Attorney to assist individuals with mental health issues who comeintocontact with theCriminal Justice System. Services include:
Who can refer an individual?
- The Accused (self-referral)
- Family or friends
- Crown Attorney
- Police
- Duty or Defence Counsel
- Community Agencies
Mental Health Court Diversion
The purpose is to divert the accused individual who has a mental health issue to appropriate community based treatment and support services. The aim is to minimize future contact with the criminal justice system.
Who qualifies for Court Diversion?
Individuals must:- Have a mental health issue
- Have been charged with a minor criminal offense
- Agree to participate and demonstrate a commitment to a Diversion Treatment Plan which has been approved by the Crown Attorney
- Be 16 years of age or older
What are the benefits?
- Accountable alternative to costly court proceedings and incarcerations
- Assists in restoring individuals to communities and families
- Following successful completion, the accused will not have a criminal record for that particular offense
- Addresses some of the underlying causes of crime by focussing on treatment of the mental health issues of the person charged
Case Management
Mental Health Case Management will be provided as part of a diversion treatment plan approved by the crown attorney. Individuals who do not meet the criteria for diversion may consult with the mental health court support worker, and if requesting case management an assessment will be arranged.
The services may include assisting with:
- coordination of mental health services
- referrals to psychiatric care
- obtaining social assistance and/or suitable housing
- referrals to longer term support services
- referrals to appropriate community services
Consultation and Information
The Mental Health Court Support Services program is a resource for information and referral. Individuals, family and/or friends, lawyers (for the accused or the Crown Attorney), case managers, and other community agencies may have questions about services, court procedures, consumer issues, mental health services, or options available to someone who has been arrested and suffers from a serious and persistent mental illness.
Contact a Mental Health Court Support Worker for information.
If you have any questions regarding the Mental Health Court Support Services, or to make a referral for diversion, contact CMHA Haldimand-Norfolk Branch and speak with a Court Support Worker - or visit our Apply For Services page.
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