Standards on Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Conditions: Standard II. Courthouses as information and navigation centers

Standards adopted by the Supreme Judicial Court, acting on the advice of the Working Group on Substance Use and Mental Health.

Standard II

Courthouses should serve as information and navigation centers, since substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and co-occurring disorders are factors in cases in many court departments.

Commentary

Courts should make available information about substance use disorders, mental health conditions, co-occurring disorders, and the impact of trauma on these conditions, as well as the availability of treatment and recovery support. The Trial Court should make information about substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and co-occurring disorders, including information from the Department of Public Health, available on its website and through printed materials in certain locations, including court service centers and law libraries.