MENTAL HEALTH COURT
Mental Health Court is a diversion program based on the philosophy where a centralized mental health program utilizes available community resources and support systems. This then increases the efficiency of the criminal court by creating an environment that is conducive to mental health treatment and wellness, while insuring the safety of the public at large.
The program provides diversion opportunities for offenders identified with mental illness and co-occurring mental disorders, thus allowing the courts treatment options in affording the use of alternatives to prosecution with graduated sanctions. Upon completion of sanctions, the offender’s re-entry into the community will be monitored thus increasing public safety and reducing recidivism.
Nassau County Mental Health Court
BAKER ACT
The purpose of the Baker Act Petition is to initiate the Baker Act proceeding for emergency pickup and evaluation for persons who are mentally ill and refuse to seek treatment and are a danger to themselves and others.
The Petition can be filed by a person(s) who has first hand knowledge of the situation. If the Petitioner is a blood relative or spouse you will need one witness. If there is no spouse or blood relatives you will need at least two witnesses.
All Baker Act cases are confidential and filed on an emergency basis. When the Judge signs the Order for Involuntary Examination the Respondent is picked up by the Sheriff's Office and delivered to the Mental Health Center in Jacksonville for evaluation. The remaining court process is handled through the Duval County Mental Health Center in Jacksonville.
MARCHMAN ACT (Substance Abuse)
The purpose of this Petition is to obtain a Court Order for substance abuse treatment when the Respondent has refused to voluntarily receive care. The Petition may be filed by one family member or three citizens of Florida.
The Marchman Act cases are confidential. Once the Judge hears the case and has signed the Order, the Respondent is scheduled for an appointment with Sutton Place for evaluation and recommended treatment.
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
These Petitions are filed by the Department of Children and Families when the Department has reason to believe a disabled or elderly adult is being neglected, abused or exploited and the person lacks the capacity to consent to services being granted. A Court Order allows the Department of Children and Families to provide services to the disabled or elderly adult.
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