Spring 2013
    Law No.: LAW7066
    Sched. No.: 113210027

Mental Health Law
Section 1
X
Hafemeister, Thomas L.



Administrative Information:
During SIS enrollment, check on SIS for real-time enrollment numbers
Days, Times (Room):TR, 1410-1530 (WB119)
Credits:3Type:Lecture
Capacity:18 **This information is current as of 05/21/2013 06:18:01 AM**
Current Enrollment:18 **This information is current as of 05/21/2013 06:18:01 AM**

Course Description:

It is estimated that about half of all Americans will experience some form of mental health problem at some point in their life. This course will address legal issues that pertain to the needs and rights of individuals with a mental disorder and explore, both currently and historically, the delivery of mental health services, the regulation of mental health professionals, and the relationship between society and individuals with a mental disability. Topics will include: (1) a brief survey of the nature and treatment of mental disorders; (2) the delivery of mental health services, institutional and community alternatives, and associated rights to treatment and services; (3) civil commitment, including outpatient civil commitment; (4) competence, surrogate decision-making, and guardianship; (5) the right to refuse treatment; (6) the financing of mental health care; (7) mandated protection from discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act and other mechanisms; and (8) the licensing and liability of mental health professionals. During the final month of the semester, guest discussants will include various consumers of mental health services, mental health providers, legal practitioners, and judges. Confirmed guest speakers include New York Court of Appeals Chief Judge (ret.) Sol Wachtler, who will describe his struggles with mental illness.

COURSE REQUIREMENT: Examination (a paper may be substituted with the permission of the instructor). NOTE: Students seeking to satisfy the upper-level writing requirement must submit a completed Writing Requirement Intent Form to the Student Records Office no later than February 22, 2013.