M1A3

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:

• Review the current state of “mental health courts.” How prevalent  are they? Is this a trend that seems to be gaining support? Do they  exist in your county presently?
• Discuss the methodology used by the BJS to support the need for  mental health services in corrections. Evaluate whether their research  is appropriate for determining the need for mental health courts, and/or  show how it could be improved. In other words, does the BJS study tell  us what we need to know?
• The BJS study at the heart of this movement was updated in 2006.  Your report proposes an updated study. Provide and discuss at least five  appropriate research questions that a present-day study on the mental  health of offenders should cover.

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.

Make certain that you support your proposal with proper reasoning and research data.