Eugene/Springfield Crime And Mental Illness Lawyer

There is a broad consensus in the field of psychiatry that mental illness and crime are linked. A Harvard study published by the American Journal of Public Health found that two-thirds of prisoners suffering from mental illness were off their medication at the time of their arrest.

I consider it a tragedy when a mentally ill person does not get the help he or she needs, and winds up in prison as a result. A significant portion of my criminal defense practice is devoted to protecting the rights of mentally ill people in the criminal justice system.

From my law firm in Oregon, I can help you ascertain whether a mental illness may be a factor that should be considered as part of your defense.

Call my Eugene law office today for a free consultation regarding the criminal charges you face. Contact me toll free at 888-309-4560.

Mental Illness And Criminal Defense

In defending my clients against criminal charges, I consider all potential defense strategies. This includes investigating if you have an undiagnosed mental illness that may have played a role in leading to criminal charges and if this can be used to reduce or dismiss the charges. These conditions especially begin to manifest themselves when people are entering early adulthood such as during college. I have worked with clients who have a mental illness such as:

Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorder
Psychosis
Side effects due to medication you may be taking for a mental illness or other diagnosis

Sometimes, these illnesses can lead to charges being reduced or even dismissed. In some cases, the law allows for a mental health diversion treatment program, instead of incarceration. I routinely work with reputable medical experts who can help diagnose my client and explain his or her actions in the context of a mental health crisis instead of a criminal act. These professionals can recommend a treatment plan which can be ordered by the court in lieu of incarceration.

Contact A Eugene/Springfield Mental Illness Defense Attorney

Call my Eugene/Springfield criminal defense law firm for a free consultation about your charges and circumstances. Contact me toll free at 888-309-4560.