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Psychiatric Security Review Board
When individuals are found Guilty but Insane [GBI] they are placed under the jurisdiction of the Arizona Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB) while they receive treatment at the Arizona State Hospital. The PSRB has the authority to grant both conditional and unconditional releases to individuals under the supervision of the PSRB. Additionally, under some circumstances, the PSRB also has the authority to order the person returned to prison following restoration of their mental health if the board determines that they no longer need treatment, but still constitute a danger to others. Individuals under the supervision of the PSRB do possess certain statutory rights to hearings which may include independent evaluations by outside doctors to prepare for those hearings. Mr. Buckallew has experience representing individuals before the Arizona Psychiatric Security Review Board - if you (or a loved one) has a hearing before the PSRB, it is imperative that you have the assistance of a competent attorney to guide you through the proceedings and to protect your rights. If you or a loved one faces a review by the Psychiatric Security Review Board or you would like to know more about the PSRB, contact an experienced Phoenix mental health attorney today.
Mr. Buckallew is one of few attorneys in the valley who has experience in representing individuals who are facing mental health issues simultaneously with criminal court matters. He has over 20 years’ experience defending individuals in criminal court matters as well as representing clients in mental health civil court and PSRB proceedings. Given the overlap we often see with clients who suffer from mental illness and find themselves facing criminal court proceedings, it can bring peace of mind knowing that your attorney has the unique knowledge and background to navigate through these issues and advocate on your behalf.
Contact a Phoenix mental health attorney to learn more about representation before the Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB), as well as to discuss the impact of mental health in both civil and criminal case.
Psychiatric Security Review Board Cases in Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa & the Entire ValleyIf an individual is found “Guilty But Insane”, he or she will most likely serve a period of commitment at the Arizona State Hospital or secure state mental facility in lieu of the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADOC). While committed, the individual will be under the jurisdiction of the Psychiatric Security Review Board. If the crime in question did not place anyone else in danger, a hearing will be set within 75 days of entering the hospital or mental health facility. During this hearing, the PSRB will determine if the individual should be released or in the alternative, civilly committed. For serious crimes, such as murder and assault resulting in serious injury, the defendant will usually serve the term of the crime in the hospital under the full jurisdiction of the PSRB.
During their time in the hospital, mentally ill patients will be assessed by the PSRB periodically. If the patient exhibits that he or she is no longer mentally ill, nor dangerous, the PSRB will release that individual. The PSRB will also conditionally release a patient if that individual falls under the category of being mentally ill but no longer dangerous. In some instances, the PSRB will determine that a patient is no longer mentally ill but still dangerous, in which case the individual will remain in the hospital despite no longer being mentally ill. Attorney Buckallew has a firm understanding of the review standards and practices of the PSRB. He will assist you and your loved one through this process.
Contact a mental health attorney serving the Phoenix area if you would like to know more about the Psychiatric Security Review Board. Schedule a case evaluation today!
