Court Support is provided in cases involving individuals charged with a minor criminal offence in Waterloo Region that is believed to be connected to a significant mental health issue, dual diagnosis or concurrent disorder*. Support and consultation is provided to individuals, families, legal professionals and community partners involved in Mental Health and Bail Court proceedings in Kitchener. Cases from Cambridge court can be transferred to Mental Health Court.
Court Support also includes:
· Assisting with screening for eligibility for Mental Health Court
· Providing general consultation regarding mental health issues and/or court processes
· Developing Mental Health Court and Mental Health Diversion plans to address individuals’ needs such as finding housing and connections to community support and treatment
· Developing alternative diversion plans for individuals that are not eligible for Mental Health Diversion, upon referral from the Crown Attorney (e.g. creating a plan for an individual with a developmental challenge involving support from their developmental service provider)
· Developing Bail Release plans, in cooperation with Bail Supervision partners, for individuals who may require mental health support
· Gathering prior treatment and support information of individuals appearing in court
* Other disorders such as acquired brain injuries and dementia may be considered on a case to case basis