HCBA Lawyer Magazine Vol. 28, No. 6 | Page 15

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