Addressing the needs of uncertified "Gravely DisableD"
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Our Take is if someone has a "mental disorder" and in relation to that they:
That person is "gravely disabled." Is the ANSWER -- certification? The ultimate answer is not certification. It may be a necessary alternative as providers and State officials struggle with challenging clients. Providers get very confused about "certification," especially when they are the ones refusing treatment and placement. If the provider seems to get the person out of their hair for the time being without appropriate measures -- maybe that's okay? IS IT? If the person is STILL @ risk of Criminal Justice Involvement because sufficient mitigating measures have not been put in place -- THAT IS NOT ADEQUATE. Throughout the next 2 weeks @ least, we will be including more information, primarily on the need to target housing, placements and services for people who could meet the criteria for "gravely disabled" are uncertified and certification may not be the best option. We will also be developing our Petition for Preliminary Injunction against the State and demand for "reasonable accommodations" as resources allow -- more work on that has now been put off until August 7. Resources don't allow a lot. We will be looking to share our generic information with other organizations to pursue as they are able and judge appropriate. Colorado Legal Services is also very strapped financially but they may be able to address FAIR HOUSING issues. |
Washington State 2004See our "Other Legal Resources" page on the Orchid website
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