Judge Ron Ficarrotta presiding over the Circuit’s Mental Health Court.
Continued from page 12
Our first MHC docket was held in February 2017. People who had been
introduced to the court via the criminal justice system were transferred to the
MHC. Instead of “defendants,” they became known as “clients,” which is
often the vernacular in Problem Solving Courts. Originally charged with
crimes against persons, drug and alcohol offenses, property crimes, and the
like, clients came into a system of care in a way not formerly available.
Previously diagnosed with psychosis and mood disorders, most clients are also
found to have secondary diagnoses. Chronic, untreated physical illnesses may
also require extensive treatment and judicial oversight.
At the one-year mark, the MHC had admitted 44 clients to the EODI.
While this is a small number, this group requires much judicial attention and
intensive clinical intervention. One of the largest obstacles to overcome is
affordable housing. Tampa’s robust economy has posed a problem for the
MHC population. While housing prices increase, the options for our clients
decrease. Housing issues are even more complicated by client criminal history
and limited work history.
While it is too soon to measure MHC trends and successes, we have
partnered with USF via a research agreement. The MHC relies on a Risk-
Need-Responsivity Model. We work closely with the State Attorney and
Public Defender Offices to ensure workflows meet our needs and our clients’
needs. Treatment providers work swiftly to make efficient, appropriate
referrals and monitor client progress and evolving needs. And over time, we
will assess our adherence to goals, including:
• reduction in arrests or rearrests of clients;
• housing stabilization;
• employment;
• mental health treatment;
• and acquisition of Social Security and other benefits.
Do you have office
space for rent?
Advertise it in
the Lawyer magazine
by emailing
[email protected].
The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court is committed to addressing the
problems of the people we serve. The MHC compliments our realm of
treatment courts by destigmatizing mental disease and recognizing the illness
as a component in the criminal justice system.
SUMMER 2018
|
HCBA LAWYER
13