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Mental Health & The Law: Criminal Lawyer Speaks at the 2018 Florida Behavioral Health Conference

Mental Health & The Law: Criminal Lawyer Speaks at the 2018 Florida Behavioral Health Conference

Mental Health & The Law: Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer Speaks at the 2018 Florida Behavioral Health Conference

 

In August 2018, Adam went up to Orlando to speak at the Florida Behavioral Health Conference. He discussed the importance of a partnership between criminal defense attorneys and mental health clinicians for the betterment of the client. The event was a great success and Adam was able to give the same presentation to a group of local attorneys here in South Florida as well. 

He’s put together two insightful articles on the experience.

1 – Why Criminal Defense Attorneys & Mental Health Professionals Need to Work Together 

Rossen Law Firm has long been an advocate for the importance of mental health professionals and criminal defense attorneys forming a partnership to help benefit our mutual clients both in the here & now, but also for the indefinite future.

A considerable number of defendants in the criminal justice system have a mental illness or a substance abuse disorder. The Florida Bar reports:

  • 17% of adults booked into jails have a serious mental illness
  • 65% of adults in the US Corrections systems have a substance use disorder
  • 72% of adults with serious mental illnesses in jail also have co-occurring substance use disorders

When a person is facing criminal charges from an arrest & also battles an addiction or a mental illness, they need both legal protection & treatment. These are the two pillars that together ensure this person’s best chance at achieving their best future.

2- How Lawyers can Help Mental Health Professionals 

When it comes to forming partnerships with mental health professionals and criminal defense attorneys, we truly believe it is a “two-way street.”

We love when we’re able to refer a client to a trusted mental health professional, and we equally love when we can be an aid to a mental health professional who may have a client struggling with a legal issue.

  • Education on the Criminal Justice Process from Arrest to Court Proceedings
    • It’s important to realize that the typical arrest process is not designed with a person who has a mental illness in mind.
  • Understanding the Nuances of the Specialized Courts
    • We have two types of mental health court in Florida, one is for misdemeanors & one is for felonies.
    • Its focus is on treatment, as opposed to punishment.
  • Crafting Letters on Behalf of Patients
  • Often, when a defendant is mentally ill, the judge will require a letter from a therapist detailing exactly what treatment the person needs.

Reach out if you are a Mental Health Professional in South Florida,  or someone with a mental illness that was charged with a crime in South Florida  

If you are a mental health professional and have any clients with legal issues, reach out to Adam for help with any questions. He can help guide you through the process. Rossen Law Firm began offering Baker Act and Marchman Act services in 2021.

Call Rossen Law Firm’s Offices to arrange a free consultation, or to chat with an attorney about forming a relationship if you are a clinical in the South Florida area. 

Give us a call today to make an appointment for a free consultation:

  • Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200
  • Sunrise: (754) 999-2499
  • Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181

 

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Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
Google Reviews
kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
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