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Youth

Obviously, children and youth do not have full civil rights. Expectations for them are set by responsible adults. This does not mean they will like it or that it aligns with their view of what matters in life. In addition, youth may find themselves involved in juvenile justice. They may be subject to orders through juvenile or family courts due to family issues. They and their families may not have full access to each other. They may have limitations based on other types of court orders as well.

Adults

Adults who use services like mental health case management have a higher likelihood they will experience mandated services or choice restrictions. They may experience short term holds against their will (called a “72-hour hold”). These are for the purpose of mental health assessment. These sometimes lead to civil commitment petitions. These petitions are used when a person appears to be impaired to the point where they need oversight for safety. Adults may be under guardianship or conservatorship. They may also be on criminal probation or have a provisional discharge from a forensic setting after being found mentally ill and dangerous. They may have been found incompetent to stand trial and be committed until they are restored to competency. They may have limits on child visitation or custody or have restraining orders against them. Very often adults in this situation are unhappy with the limits and would like to have more freedom.

For better or worse, the courts are part of the landscape of mental health treatment.