The Arizona Supreme Court has launched a Steering Committee on Mental Health and the Justice System, aiming to better integrate mental health care into legal proceedings. Led by former Chief Justice Robert M. Brutinel, the committee consists of 26 members from both the judicial and mental health fields. Its goal is to advise the Arizona Judicial Council on best practices for handling civil and criminal cases involving individuals with mental illness.
The committee will recommend evidence-based approaches for managing cases, advocate for rule and statutory changes, and push for educational initiatives to help manage such cases effectively. This initiative is part of a broader strategy championed by Chief Justice Ann Timmer, emphasizing the need for justice reforms that consider the intersection of mental health issues and the justice system.
The full administrative order outlining the committee’s objectives is available on the Arizona Supreme Court’s official website for those interested in learning more about its work and goals.