Mental Health Law

Catalog description

This course introduces students to the cases, statutes, and legal doctrines relating to the rights, treatment, and commitment of persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or intellectual disabilities. Topics covered include: confidentiality of mental health records, forms of surrogate decision-makers (i.e. guardianship, powers of attorney), mental health treatment for minors, right to refuse treatment, special education, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Students will discuss real-life cases and examples to compare and contract application of the law and policies.