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Abstract: 

The premise of mental health courts is to “curb mental health disorders among justice-involved individuals,” a purpose that seems fundamentally at odds with a system created to punish people for wrongdoing. Even when rehabilitation is emphasized, mental health courts clash with the well-documented body of scientific studies connecting mental illness with neurobiology. Regardless, these courts have proliferated across the United States over the past 30 years, with more than 470 operating nationwide. Significantly, there is little consistency in how they operate. While this may be viewed as positive in the light of tailoring to local circumstances, it seriously complicates evaluative comparisons. Are mental health courts an idea whose time has come—and gone?

Keywords: Mental Health Courts, Criminal Justice System, Rehabilitation, Punishment, Recidivism

Affiliations:  1: Correctional Mental Health Report.