How Does Marion County’s Behavioral Health Court Work?

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

The Marion County Jail is packed. It is over-crowded, housing more than 900 inmates. And according to WFYI Indianapolis, more than 300 of those individuals suffer from mental health problems. In many cases, an inmate’s mental health issues were a leading factor in landing them behind bars, from drug and alcohol addiction, to bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.

Although the jail offers basic medication and treatment for offenders, the quality of care is not equal to the level of treatment they could be receiving at a dignified mental health rehabilitation center. Fortunately, Marion County officials have come to recognize that certain inmates truly need genuine mental health rehabilitation in addition to their sentences.

For this reason, the Marion County Court System has introduced an alternative type of court for offenders suffering from mental illness, and whose mental illness may have contributed to the crimes they’ve committed. This is called Marion County Behavioral Health Court, and is head by esteemed Judge, Barbara Crawford.

Eligibility

Not all individuals are eligible. But for those with an official diagnosis, they can choose to take their case through this alternative behavioral health court instead of the traditional system. It is a wise option for offenders facing serious charges for crimes they’ve committed because it gives them the opportunity to receive genuine behavioral and mental health treatment after they carry out their sentence. Each person who chooses this alternative court system is assigned a “recovery coach” after their sentence is complete.

With their recovery coaches, individuals will work through 5 phases to achieve better health:

1. Mandatory Court Appearances
2. Therapy
3. Compliance with Prescription Medication
4. Drug Testing
5. Additional Activities to Remain Focused on a Healthy, Rehabilitated Lifestyle

A recovery coach will be by their side to help them achieve these five phases and more. This gives them the knowledge, tools, and resources to transition from jail and back into real life. They get the assistance they need to become a productive and compliant part of society. So they receive their punishment, and then become a healthier, happier, and better person.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

David E. Lewis Criminal Defense Attorney

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for Indianapolis criminal defense you can trust. Our law firm does everything in our power to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your criminal charges and strategies for defense. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule yours today!