If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges connected to mental health struggles, you deserve a legal advocate who understands the unique challenges of these cases. At Simmrin Law Group, our El Monte mental health attorneys focus on defending individuals whose mental health conditions have intersected with the justice system.
We are committed to ensuring that you receive fair treatment and access to the support and care you need rather than punitive measures.
Since 2005, our mental health lawyers have provided trusted legal representation in El Monte and the Los Angeles area, offering compassionate and effective solutions for individuals facing mental health-related legal issues.
How Mental Health Affects Criminal Cases
Mental health conditions often play a significant role in criminal behavior. Struggles with conditions like anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia can lead to actions that are misunderstood by law enforcement and the courts.
Unfortunately, these challenges frequently result in arrests or charges rather than support or treatment.
Our mental health lawyers in El Monte work to ensure that your mental health condition is recognized as a mitigating factor in your case. This approach allows us to advocate for treatment-based alternatives, such as diversion programs, instead of punitive sentences like incarceration.
For a free legal consultation with a mental health lawyer serving El Monte, call (310) 896-2723
Understanding Mental Health Diversion in El Monte
California offers mental health diversion programs to help individuals with qualifying mental health conditions avoid jail or prison time. These programs focus on rehabilitation and recovery rather than punishment, aiming to address the root causes of criminal behavior.
Advantages of Mental Health Diversion
- Professional treatment tailored to your condition
- Avoidance of incarceration and its long-term consequences
- Retention of important civil rights, such as voting and maintaining professional licenses
- A chance to rebuild your life without the burden of a criminal record
Who Qualifies for Mental Health Diversion?
To participate in a mental health diversion program, you must meet certain criteria:
- Diagnosis of a Qualifying Mental Illness: Only conditions recognized in the DSM-5, such as PTSD, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, are eligible.
- A Connection Between the Condition and the Offense: There must be evidence that your mental health condition directly contributed to the alleged crime.
- No Threat to Public Safety: Courts must be confident that treatment will sufficiently reduce any risks posed to the community.
- Willingness to Waive Specific Rights: Entering a diversion program often requires waiving your right to a speedy trial.
Successful completion of a mental health diversion program can result in the dismissal of charges, offering a fresh start.
El Monte Mental Health Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
How an El Monte Mental Health Lawyer Can Assist You
Our mental health attorneys in El Monte understand the challenges of dealing with legal issues involving mental health. Our team provides comprehensive support by:
- Partnering with mental health professionals to evaluate your condition and present expert findings in court, ensuring your mental health is addressed correctly
- Building a strong defense by collecting evidence such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements to demonstrate how your mental health impacted your actions
- Advocating for treatment-focused outcomes, such as mental health diversion programs or alternative sentencing, to help you avoid incarceration and focus on recovery
- Guiding you through the legal process so you feel supported and informed at every stage, reducing stress and uncertainty
Our goal is to protect your rights, prioritize your well-being, and help you rebuild your future with confidence, dignity, and hope for a better tomorrow.
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What Happens if You Face Involuntary Treatment?
If law enforcement misinterprets mental health symptoms, individuals may be subjected to involuntary psychiatric holds, such as:
- 5150 Holds: A temporary psychiatric hold lasting up to 72 hours.
- 5250 Holds: A 14-day extension for individuals deemed a danger to themselves, others, or gravely disabled.
Our El Monte mental health lawyers will advocate for your rights during these proceedings. We’ll work to ensure that you receive appropriate care and that your legal rights are respected.
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Who May Not Qualify for Diversion Programs?
Certain cases may not meet the criteria for mental health diversion, including:
- Charges involving violent or sexual offenses
- Diagnoses not covered by the DSM-5, such as antisocial personality disorder
- Cases where the court determines the individual poses a significant risk to the public
Even if you are ineligible for diversion, we will explore all possible legal strategies to reduce penalties and seek treatment-focused solutions.
Contact an El Monte Mental Health Lawyer Today
If a mental health condition contributed to your legal difficulties, you deserve an attorney who will fight for treatment and justice. At Simmrin Law Group, our experienced El Monte mental health lawyers are dedicated to defending your rights, ensuring fair treatment, and helping you access the care you need to regain control of your life.
Call us today or fill out our secure online form to schedule a free consultation. Together, we’ll protect your future, explore treatment-focused options, and help you move forward.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form