A Statewide Examiniation of Mental Health Courts in Illinois: Program Characteristics and Operations

International Journal for Court Administration

Monte D. Staton¹  Lorena Roque²  Arthur J. Lurigio²  Shanti J. Raman³ 

[1] Ball State UniversityMuncie, Indiana;Loyola University Chicago;Treatment Alternatives for Safe CommunitiesChicago, IL;

关键词: Mental Health Courts;    Mental Illness;    Criminal Adjudication;    Recidivism;   

DOI  :  10.18352/ijca.182

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

This study represents the only broad-based, statewide evaluation of mental health courts (MHCs) conducted to date.  Data were collected from 2010 to 2013 at each of the nine active MHC programs operating in Illinois at the start of the study. The purpose of the study was to compare and contrast the adjudicatory and supervisory models of each established Illinois MHC program by utilizing a variety of research methodologies. A four-year recidivism analysis of case-level data from three Illinois MHCs was also conducted. Illinois MHCs were largely characterized by the '10 essential elements of an MHC', such as voluntary participation, informed choice and hybrid team approaches to case manage clients. Results of the recidivism analysis suggest that MHCs compare favorably to other types of probation. Overall, findings revealed that Illinois MHCs are delivering services effectively and efficiently in a well-coordinated, client-centered team approach. Differences found among the MHCs are not evidence of significant variance from the model, and instead represent responsiveness to the unique culture of the court, the niche-filling character of the program, the expectations of the program stakeholders and the nature and extent of the local service environment.

【 授权许可】

Unknown