Ventura Mental Health Attorney
Ventura Criminal Defense Attorney Helping those with Mental Illness
It can be extremely difficult for individuals with mental illness to understand particular laws, and to communicate well with police officers when an issue arises. Furthermore, police officers are not well trained to deal with the special needs of a mentally ill person. As a result, many mentally ill individuals may find themselves under arrest and charged with crimes they did not commit or did not intentionally commit.
Someone who is actively psychotic, experiencing a manic episode, or simply taking their prescribed medications may appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol and may be perceived as a threat even when they are not a danger to anyone and have done nothing wrong. The criminalization of mental illness is an injustice that cannot be overlooked. If your mentally ill loved one has been unjustly arrested, contact our firm today.
Additionally, if someone is perceived by police officers to be a threat to themselves or others, they may have that individual detained for up to 72 hours, under the California Welfare and Institutions Code Section 5150, without the chance of release. Code 5250 is similar but individuals can be detained for up to 14 days. In both cases, individuals may be forced to take antipsychotic medication against their will. If your loved one has been detained, they have little chance of being released on their own. They need the help of an attorney.
Criminal Defense and Mental Health Attorney in Ventura
At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we believe that mentally ill individuals should not be detained, when their family is willing to take them into their care when they are released. With over 50 years of combined experience in the areas of criminal defense law, we can defend your loved one if they are charged with a criminal offense, such as assault, battery, or sex crimes, such as sexual assault.
Contact our firm today if your mentally ill loved one has been charged with a crime, or being held under 5150 detainment.
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