L.I.N.C.

Learning to Identify & Navigate Change

Who We Are

LINC Court, formally Mental Health Court, is a program for defendants who are facing a charge and living with serious mental health issues. LINC is a diverse group consisting of a presiding judge, defense and prosecuting attorneys, clinicians, probation officers, and community treatment providers.

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Our Mission

The LINC program aids defendants in navigating the legal and mental health system. The program works to promote public safety by providing a structure for participants to get appropriate treatment while being held accountable for their actions. LINC works with community providers to make sure participants are complying with mental health and substance use treatment recommendations.

"It is truly exciting to see individuals change the path of their lives. The commitment of our participants and the positive changes in their lives that result is incredibly inspiring and represents true justice."

— Judge Cindi Morehart, Former Judge of LINC

"The resources, positivity, and healthy support from the specialized dockets team made a huge impact at the most crucial, fear-ridden and hopeless time in my life. With its support, while holding me accountable for my previous and future actions, I was able to start a new, amazing journey in my life. A journey for which I will forever be grateful."

- Jill, LINC Graduate

"LINC showed me that changing everything about me saved my life."

-Ryan, LINC Participant

"I'm so grateful for Judge Morehart and the entire LINC team for assisting me in my recovery. The program saved my life!"

-Evan, LINC Graduate

Why utilize specialized dockets?

Community Safety

Defendants who enter into specialized dockets are heavily supervised. In many cases, they are required to check in weekly, be drug tested several times per week, and meet regularly with the LINC Probation Officer.

Restorative Justice

Approximately 1 in 10 American adults have a substance abuse disorder and 1 in 5 have a mental health disorder*. Many have issues with both mental health and substance use. Rather than sending these individuals to jail where they continue to be stigmatized and receive no treatment, LINC works with individuals to address their needs so they can become productive members of society and maintain community supports. *NADCP Statistics

Efficiency

For every $1 invested in specialized dockets, approximately $27 of taxpayer money is saved. *NADCP Statistics

Learning to Navigate Change

During the course of the two year program, LINC participants learn that not all change is bad and even difficult change can be navigated successfully with the right tools. LINC provides structure while assisting participants in starting and maintaining treatment by working with community mental health providers. These providers aid participants in learning new coping skills to deal with their mental health and provide treatment based on each participant's individual needs.

Benefit for participants

Participants who complete the LINC program may be eligible to have their charges vacated and dismissed, making it easier to obtain jobs and housing. All participants receive a note in their case that indicates program completion. While in the program, Participants may gain access to vocational training, housing assistance, or other resources to maintain their stability. Participants also receive help from LINC staff in navigating the mental health system so they can independently continue their treatment after the program.

Requirements and Guidelines

LINC follows Supreme Court requirements and guidelines for entry into the program. The process includes:

  • Speak to attorney regarding LINC
  • Get referred and agreement from defending attorney, prosecutor, or referring Judge
  • Complete an initial screening and potential mental health assessment
  • Complete 4-6 week trial period
  • Plea into LINC
  • Comply with the rules and treatment set forth by LINC staff

Download a LINC Court Brochure(PDF, 498KB)

Criteria to Enter

Defendants eligible for LINC must be facing a new misdemeanor or eligible felony charge or have a pending probation violation. They must meet criteria for serious mental health concerns and have no sexual offenses or other disqualifying charges

Participant Expectations

LINC is a two-year, four-phase program in which participants are held to a high standard and must consistently work on mental health and substance abuse. Stages are tailored to each individual based on change and completion of goals.

View all Specialized Dockets

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