Best Practices for the Mentally Ill in the Criminal Justice System

<p> This timely brief resource introduces a new evidence-based model for treatment of mentally ill individuals in jails, with emphasis on community-based options. Forensic mental health experts review police alternatives to arresting mentally ill persons in confrontations, the efficacy of problem-solving courts, and continuity of care between jail and community. The book's best-practices approach extends to frequently related issues such as addiction, domestic violence, juvenile considerations, and trauma and describes successful programs coordinating judicial and clinical systems. These guidelines for decriminalizing non-violent behaviors and making appropriate services available to those with mental problems should also help address issues affecting the justice system, such as overcrowding.</p><p> Included in the coverage: <ul> <li> The Best Practices Model. </li> <li> Best practices in law enforcement crisis interventions with the mentally ill. </li> <li> Problem-solving courts and therapeutic jurisprudence. </li> <li> Competency restoration programs. </li> <li> A review of best practices for the treatment of persons with mental illness in jail. </li> <li> Conclusions, recommendations, and helpful appendices. </li> </ul></p><p> With its practical vision for systemic improvement, <em> Best Practices Model for Intervention with the Mentally Ill in the Criminal Justice System </em> is progressive reading for practitioners in the mental health field, especially practitioners working with inmates, as well as for stakeholders in the law enforcement and justice systems.</p>