At Simmrin Law Group, our Azusa mental health lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate legal support for individuals facing legal challenges related to mental health. With decades of combined experience and thousands of clients served, we are committed to protecting your rights and advocating for your best interests.
Whether you or a loved one is dealing with criminal charges, civil matters, or other legal issues connected to mental health, our team is here to offer personalized guidance and strong representation.
Our mental health lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases present and work to achieve the most favorable outcome possible. Trust Simmrin Law Group to stand by your side. Call us for a free consultation.
Understanding Mental Health and Criminal Charges
Mental health conditions often play a significant role in criminal cases, especially when untreated. In California, laws such as Involuntary Treatment [5150 – 5349.1] allow individuals experiencing severe mental health crises to be detained for evaluation and treatment if they:
- Pose a danger to themselves
- Pose a danger to others
- Are gravely disabled
These holds can escalate quickly, leading to extended detainment or even criminal charges if the behavior stemming from mental illness is misunderstood.
At Simmrin Law Group, we focus on addressing the root causes of these legal issues. Our Azusa mental health attorneys work to help clients secure treatment through programs like mental health diversion under Penal Code §1001.36, rather than facing harsh criminal penalties or long-term involuntary holds.
For a free legal consultation with a mental health lawyer serving Azusa, call (310) 896-2723
Involuntary Treatment: 5150 and 5250 Holds
In California, involuntary treatment laws allow individuals experiencing severe mental health crises to be detained for evaluation and care. These holds are often used when someone is deemed a danger to themselves, others, or is gravely disabled due to a mental health condition:
- 5150 Hold: A 72-hour involuntary hold during which a person is evaluated and treated by mental health professionals. This can be initiated by law enforcement or medical personnel if immediate intervention is required.
- 5250 Hold: If further care is necessary, a 5250 hold extends the detention for an additional 14 days. This extension requires a probable cause hearing to ensure the hold is legally justified.
At Simmrin Law Group, our mental health lawyers in Azusa are here to protect your rights throughout this process. We work to ensure you or your loved one receives appropriate care while helping to minimize the legal and personal consequences of involuntary treatment. If you’re facing a 5150 or 5250 hold, contact our team for immediate assistance.
Azusa Mental Health Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What Is a Mental Health Diversion Program?
A mental health diversion program in California offers eligible individuals the opportunity to receive treatment instead of facing incarceration. These programs focus on rehabilitation, addressing the mental health conditions that may contribute to criminal behavior.
By participating in a treatment plan, individuals can work toward recovery while reducing the likelihood of reoffending. Upon successful completion, criminal charges are dismissed, allowing participants to move forward with a clean record and a fresh start. Mental health diversion is a powerful alternative to traditional sentencing, emphasizing care over punishment.
Benefits of Mental Health Diversion
Participating in a mental health diversion program can provide life-changing benefits, including:
- Avoided incarceration: Instead of serving time in jail or prison, individuals receive appropriate mental health care.
- Dismissal of charges: Upon completion, criminal charges are dropped, protecting your future from the lasting impact of a conviction.
- Restored rights: Completing the program can help preserve your rights to vote, drive, maintain professional licenses, and access government benefits.
- Improved mental health: The program ensures you receive the medical care necessary to stabilize your mental health and reduce future risks.
Eligibility for Mental Health Diversion
Not everyone qualifies for a mental health diversion program. To be eligible, you must meet specific criteria:
- Have a qualifying mental illness: Your condition must be listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
- Prove a link between mental illness and the crime: Evidence must show that your mental health condition contributed to or caused the alleged offense. This can include medical records, testimony from mental health professionals, or other documentation.
- Agree to Waive Certain Rights: To participate in the program, you must waive your right to a speedy trial and commit to completing the treatment plan established by the court.
At Simmrin Law Group, our Azusa, CA, mental health lawyers can evaluate your case to determine if you meet the requirements for mental health diversion. We will guide you through the process, gather the necessary evidence, and advocate for your inclusion in the program to help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
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How Our Azusa Mental Health Attorneys Can Help
Simmrin Law Group has extensive legal knowledge and experience. As such, we understand the challenges you may be experiencing and are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal support.
Our Azusa mental health lawyers can:
- Advocate for mental health diversion programs: We will work to secure your placement in a diversion program, helping you access the treatment you need while avoiding incarceration.
- Prove the connection between your mental illness and the alleged offense: Using medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence, we will demonstrate how your mental health condition contributed to the charges against you.
- Protect your rights during 5150 or 5250 hearings: We will ensure your rights are upheld during involuntary treatment proceedings.
Our team is here to provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
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Contact Our Mental Health Lawyers in Azusa Today
At Simmrin Law Group, we are committed to helping individuals facing mental health-related legal issues find a path forward. Our seasoned Azusa mental health lawyers are ready to provide the knowledgeable support and representation you deserve.
If you or a loved one is dealing with a mental health-related legal matter, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form