THE MENTAL HEALTH COURT OF QUEENSLAND: A SHINING LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

Abstract

Background: The Queensland Mental Health Court (QMHC) system, in which assisting clinicians (psychiatrists and psychologists) play a central role, has been operating in one form or another for approximately 40 years. It operates as a higher court presided over by a Supreme Court Judge with an inquisitorial approach to evidence. The Court deals with matters of unsoundness of mind and fitness for trial in the criminal jurisdiction as well as appeals regarding orders and Tribunals associated with involuntary mental health treatment. Objectives: To describe the function of the Court and the numerous advantages with regard to clinical disposition, efficiency and cost effectiveness. Methods: Metrics from the Court's annual function will be presented as well as some limited economic projections on savings resulting from the operation of the Court. Findings: The Court, although imperfect, has been a substantial advance for justice and the appropriate management of persons with severe mental illness in Queensland over the last 40 years. Conclusions: Other jurisdictions should consider adopting such a model for economic, clinical and human rights reasons.