Montgomery County to launch pilot program for representing mentally ill
The CourierNov 20, 2017
Commissioners on Tuesday approved a pilot program for County Court-at-Law 4, which, among other responsibilities, handles a majority of the county's mental health commitment proceedings. The proceedings usually are brought on by a judge, police officer, parent or guardian who believes a person with mental illness is in need of emergency treatment, according to Assistant Montgomery County Attorney
State law dictates any mentally ill person who is being sought for treatment must have a court hearing within 48 hours of detention. That initial hearing allows a judge, usually CCL 4 Judge
In
While most of them pledge to be available within 48 hours,
"They've had a particular problem getting attorneys," Jensen said. "Person A can't do it, Person B can't do it, Person C is out on vacation, Person D can't make it because they have a sick parent. The idea of the wheel is that you're supposed to appoint Person A, then Person B then Person C. The problem is these attorneys have no ability to see their clients within the 48 hours before the hearing has to take place."
The pilot program instead will have three attorneys sign
Although the cases have a quick turnaround, they require an expertise and "niche" from the attorneys because of how complex they can become, Jensen said.
Jensen said he's working closely with the
Officials hope to have the pilot program up and running by the new year.