What is mental health law?

Mental health law, as it pertains to the state of Maryland, is a set of laws that determine how mental health services are provided. It includes both civil and criminal laws. Civil laws protect the rights of individuals with mental health disabilities by establishing minimum standards of care with regard to psychological and physical treatment, ensuring those affected by mental illness have access to the services they need. Civil laws also seek to protect these individuals from discrimination in areas such as housing, employment, and education. Criminal laws also play a role in mental health law by establishing penalties for certain types of behavior, such as violence and self-harm, which might be related to mental health issues. Laws also govern how those accused of committing crimes related to mental illness are tried in the court system, as well as how the criminal justice system deals with those individuals who suffer from mental health issues. Overall, mental health law helps ensure those affected by mental illness are provided the care they need and are protected from discrimination. It also works to ensure that those affected by mental illness receive both their civil and criminal rights and are not unduly punished for their mental health issues.

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What is mental health law?

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