foundation w 1 p 1

considered some of the issues surrounding the
implementation of mental health courts. 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