Court Outreach and Diversion Program

Canadian Mental Health Association: Cochrane-Timiskaming Branch

The Court Outreach Program provides support and advocacy to individuals involved in the criminal justice system who experience mental health, addictions and or developmental difficulties.

The Court Outreach worker works closely with the Crown Attorney’s Office, Duty/Defence Counsel, Police, Corrections, and Community Service agencies to provide linkages to treatment and support where required, in order to minimize the possibility of further involvement in court.

Court Outreach team members work closely with the Crown Attorney and the Duty Counsel to provide linkages to treatment and support where required.

Court Outreach services include:

• Linking individuals to appropriate supports and services within the community in order to ensure proper treatment, and as such, reduces the risk of criminal recidivism.

• Consulting with court personnel and or Judiciary on matters relating the mental illness, addictions and or developmental challenges, and disposition.

• Providing education to clients, family members, and anyone requesting assistance in regards to issues surrounding mental health, addiction, developmental issues, and the criminal justice system.

• Working with corrections and local service providers to facilitate discharge planning for inmates returning to the community from local correctional facilities.

• Advocating for the diversion of certain persons out of the criminal justice system