Mental Health Court

Participants access identified treatment, counseling, supportive housing, and other services. The Mental Health Treatment Court program is modeled on the fundamental key components nationally recognized for Drug Courts. It integrates court and community supervision with focused medical, substance abuse and mental health service programs provided through the local providers.

Prospective participants arrested for a qualifying third-degree felony and/or non-violent misdemeanor or criminal traffic offenses, with the exception of those charged with domestic violence of an intimate partner, driving under the influence and sexual charges. Prospective participants cannot not currently be on probation.

This pretrial diversion option requires approval by the Office of the State Attorney prior to program participation. The prospective participant must have an Axis 1 mental health diagnosis or a developmental disability. Successful completion of the diversion option will result in the State’s dismissal of the charges filed against the individual.

Mental health treatment, referral to psychiatric services, substance abuse treatment, random drug testing and ongoing judicial review.

The capacity for the program is 35 participants. Mental Health Court may have a waiting list due to capacity limitations. Prospective participants can be placed on supervised release with conditions of mental health treatment pending acceptance into Mental Health Court in lieu of remaining in custody.

There are no fees for participants in Mental Health Court.

Contact:

  • Teresa York
  • Court Officer
  • 249 West University Avenue (Rear Entrance)
  • Gainesville, FL Gainesville
  • Phone: 352-338-7360
  • Fax: 352-334-0132
  • TDD/TTY users, please call 711 (Florida Relay Service)
  • John Velez
  • Treatment Courts Supervisor
  • 249 West University Avenue (Rear Entrance)
  • Gainesville, FL Gainesville
  • Phone: 352-384-3199
  • Fax: 352-334-0132
  • TDD/TTY users, please call 711 (Florida Relay Service)

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