Mental Health Court

Font Size: + -

Feedback Print

What is the Tempe Municipal Court Mental Health Court?

Problem-solving court program with a weekly docket.
Established to address the unique needs of participants with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities.
A cooperative effort among the judge, prosecutor, defense attorney and treatment team working together to address the participant's behavioral health and other needs, create treatment and service referrals, and assist participants in achieving goals and successfully completing the program.

Benefits of a Mental Health Court Program?

Addresses pending charges and life situations such as medical conditions, unemployment, lack of education, homelessness, behavioral health issues, including drug or alcohol abuse that may be contributing to the participant's charges.
Provides individualized treatment and support services that focus on returning its participants to a mentally healthy status.
Aims to reduce the possibility of reoffending and the number of days spent in custody.
Improves the quality of life for people with mental illness who are charged with crimes.
Graduates may earn a dismissal or a reduction in charges.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

Individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities who are charged with misdemeanors in the Tempe Municipal Court. Participants must be enrolled and case managed with the local Regional Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA), the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) or another provider who is willing to monitor the participant and provide treatment information to the court.

How Do I Enroll?

If you want to be considered for the Tempe Mental Health Court, ask your case manager, your attorney, the prosecutor or the judge to determine your eligibility.