Court Diversion & Support Program

 
Target Population
Adults who appear to have mental health needs who have been charged with a criminal offence, and  who would benefit from community or hospital-based mental health services as a possible alternative to incarceration.

Adults with mental health needs who have been convicted of a criminal offence, and who would benefit from community or hospital-based mental health services as an alternative to incarceration or upon discharge.

Mental health needs include: Mental Illness, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, Acquired Brain Injury, Developmental Disability, Dual Diagnosis, and Concurrent Disorders.

Services Offered:
Diversion
Diversion occurs where the Crown believes mental illness is the underlying cause of alleged criminal conduct: the Crown may stay the charge(s) after the accused embarks upon a community treatment plan which addresses treatment needs and reduces the likelihood of recidivism.

Court support services
Based on client need, court support services may include:
·    Assistance accessing duty counsel, legal aid, and/or retaining counsel
·    Facilitation of bail release
·    Case management and linkages to community support services, housing, psychiatric and income supports
·    Individualized recommendations to the court upon sentencing

Post-Conviction Services
There are several points during post-conviction phase where Post-Conviction Services can be accessed, including:
·    Between disposition and sentencing
·    While individual is in custody
·    Community supervision case management
·    Release planning
·    Conditional release and unconditional release.

Referrals
Individuals may be referred to the Court Diversion & Support Program by various sources including the Court, Crown Attorney, Defence/Duty Counsel, Probation Officer, community service providers, family members, as well as self referrals.

Referrals can be made any time during an individual’s legal process by contacting CMHA Court Diversion & Support Worker, at contact us

Click here to download our Court Diversion & Support Fact Sheet