Legal Advocacy

Abstract

This chapter will focus on the particularities of the legal practice as it intersects with the practice of mental health professionals. In some cases, the treatment needs of the individual will take a backseat to the civil liberties at stake, and the necessity of these laws is explored. As is appropriate considering modem state hospital populations, the bulk of the material addresses the forensic subjects of criminal competency, restoration, and dangerousness, followed by a review of the lawyer's role in civil commitments. Attention is given to questions of recovery through the eyes of defense counsel and individuals facing chronic legal issues while saddled with mental health problems. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)