Mental Health Attorney II - District Attorney - Criminal
Denton County See More Job Openings by This Employer
- Description
The Mental Health Attorney II will attend involuntary civil commitment hearings, work with the jail, community diversion coordinator, and other stakeholders to divert mentally ill defendants from jail into appropriate psychiatric care. This position will prepare mental health court dockets, Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) dockets, and participate weekly in the continuity of care staffing for AOT participants. Additionally, it will conduct hearings, perform legal research, communicate with community partners and stakeholders, and train law enforcement officials on legal requirements.
- Examples of Duties
Presents evidence in involuntary civil commitment hearings; evaluates, investigates, and prepares for cases in the Probate courts.
Assists in the preparation of mental health court dockets, Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) dockets, and participates in the continuity of care staffing for AOT participants.
Collaborates with others to divert mentally ill defendants from jail into appropriate psychiatric care.
Attend Mental Health dockets in both county Criminal Courts and the District Courts.
Review case filings and documentation to assess and recommend the legal appropriateness of placements, ensuring public safety.
Review and prepare direct and cross-examination of mental health experts.
Advises, assists, and trains law enforcement officials on legal requirements.
Attend various stakeholder collaboration meetings to assist in providing legal knowledge and recommendations regarding placements and continuity of care.
Assists criminal prosecutors with competency hearings and helps them fight against the insanity defense.
Regular and punctual attendance required.
Performs other related duties as required.
- Minimum Qualifications
Doctoral degree required for this position.
Minimum one year of experience in a related field required.
Must possess a license to practice law in the State of Texas.
Must be able to pass a State Criminal History background check.
- Supplemental Information
THE ANTICIPATED START DATE AND SALARY FOR THIS POSITION IS OCTOBER 1, 2025.
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- $98,334 - $114,067/year
