1. Mental Health Court Diversion/Court Support
A cooperative venture between the criminal justice system and the mental health system

2. Rationale
The Court Support program was developed to assist individuals who come in conflict with the law due to their mental health concerns. Mental Health Court Diversion provides alternate means of resolution of criminal charges.

3. Court Support Court accompaniment
Information and assistance in relation to navigating the mental health and/or justice system
Assistance in accessing legal counsel
Linkage to mental health and addictions services and other community supports (ie housing, primary care, finances)

4. Court Diversion
provides service to individuals who have a diagnosed or suspected serious mental illness (SMI)
Voluntary (individual must agree to participate in mental health diversion)
Criteria for Admission
age 16 and up
minor offence
diagnosed or suspected SMI which is directly related to the offence
approval of Crown’s office

5. Minor offences include
Mischief
Shoplifting (Theft under $5000)
Fraud under $5000
Possession of stolen property
Cause disturbance
False pretences (eg price tag switching)
Some discretion around Class 2 offences (simple assaults)

6. Monday -Friday presence in Provincial Court House
Community based outreach and support
Support offered to family and friends
Liaise with hospitals, forensics, Correctional Facilities and other community agencies
Consultation around bail release plans

7. Dual Diagnosis Court Support
Individualized supports for people with mental health and developmental disability
Services provided across South East Ontario
Consult and Diversion supports available
Linkages to Developmental Service Providers and/or Mental Health and Addictions services

8. Drug Treatment Court
Specialty court for individuals to address addiction and mental health
Referrals must be made by Defence counsel to the Crown Attorney’s Office
Minimum 9 months of intensive weekly treatment
Ultimate goal is abstinence from substance use

9. How to Refer Call FCMHAS 613-544-1356 ext 2250 Information required
Name & contact information
Charges
Court date
Date of birth
Symptoms and/or Diagnosis
Legal counsel