Can a Mentally Ill Person be Held by Police Without Arrest?

Typically, a mentally ill defendant who is arrested in Arizona is taken into custody by the police, processed into jail, and then promptly charged with a crime before a judge. The police cannot hold a mentally ill person indefinitely without arrest. However, Arizona law allows the authorities to hold a mentally ill person against his […]

What are the Conditions for Pleading Mentally Ill

In the state of Arizona, there are times when a person might be able to enter an insanity plea or mental disorder plea. This is when a defendant pleads guilty to a criminal offense, but does not take responsibility for their actions due to insanity or a mental illness. It can be difficult to stand […]

What Exactly are Mental Health Courts?

A serious mental health illness can make court cases complicated. Luckily, adults with a serious mental health illness can attend a Mental Health Court. You may have heard of Mental Health Courts, but what exactly are they and who qualifies for them? Definition Mental Health Courts are specialty courts that combines judicial supervision along with […]

La Paz County Votes To Lower Mental Illness In Jails

A unanimous vote taken by the La Paz County Board of Supervisors early this month will commit them to a national incentive aimed at reducing the number of mentally ill people in county jails. Stepping Up Initiative Stepping Up is a national initiative dedicated to reducing the number of people with mental illness in jails. Each year […]

Statistics About Mental Health and Crime

Based on public opinion, many people believe that crime is almost always linked to mental illness. This does not always prove to be true, as most people with psychiatric disorders are not violent. In fact, only 3%-5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals living with a serious mental illness. This article will distinguish […]