Archive
Specialized defense counsel
Once appointed, the defense counsel is made aware of a defendant’s identified mental health needs. In some jurisdictions, defendants with such needs are also connected to social workers or case managers embedded in the defense office. Read More
Screening process for Medicaid and SSI/SSDI eligibility
A process is established to screen people in the jail (and at any other points in the criminal justice system, as applicable) for Medicaid and Social Security Income (SSI)/Social Security Disability (SSDI) eligibility. Read More
Prescriptions and medications provided upon release
People leaving jail are prescribed and given access to an appropriate supply of needed medications upon release to avoid harmful–and potentially unsafe–disruptions in care. Read More
Screening and assessment process for substance addiction
Every person booked into jail is screened for substance addiction using validated screening tools. For those that screen positive, a licensed mental health professional administers a validated clinical assessment in a timely manner. Crucial case information is then disseminated to appropriate decision makers to inform pretrial release decisions and the… Read More
Screening and assessment process for mental illness
Every person booked into jail is screened for mental illnesses using validated screening tools. For those that screen positive for serious mental illness, a licensed mental health professional administers a validated clinical assessment in a timely manner. Crucial case information is then disseminated to appropriate decision makers to inform pretrial… Read More
Pretrial diversion
At the pre-adjudication stage, people are identified as having a mental illness or co-occurring substance addiction and are referred to a pretrial diversion program. People referred to the program follow an alternative criminal justice case process and are connected with appropriate services and treatment. Read More
Permanent supportive housing
An evidence-based model that combines affordable housing and flexible supportive services for people experiencing homelessness, including those with criminal justice histories and behavioral health needs. Criminal justice agencies can partner with housing agencies and providers to develop supportive housing programs that target individuals who are leaving prisons and jails. Read More
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (Motivational interviewing)
Motivational interviewing is a participant-centric, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. It is an evidence-based practice that has been identified by researchers, experts, and practitioners as being effective for adults involved in the criminal justice system. Read More
Mental health professional embedded in the jail
One or more mental health professionals work within the jail to provide expertise and support for corrections personnel, as well as treatment, referrals, and support for people who have mental illnesses. Read More