The Public Defender Mental Health Advocacy and Litigation Unit (PDMHALU) began representing clients in FY 2018.  It focuses on the unique needs of clients with severe mental illness and intellectual disability and has been very effective advocating for the least restrictive conditions of release necessary.  During the first quarter of FY 2018, PDMHALU secured personal recognizance bonds at 19% of initial bond hearings, and reduced surety bond amounts and/or split bonds (part surety and part PR) in an additional 19% of bond hearings. The attorneys work closely with investigators, social workers, and community resources to highlight mental health and intellectual disabilities as both defenses and mitigation of punishment where appropriate.

The Texas Indigent Defense Commission (TIDC)'s discretionary grant program is designed to facilitate Counties establishing new system capacities and transitioning the cost into County budgets over several years.  The grant program uses a stair step match requirement, where Counties fund 20% the first year, 40% the second, 60% the third, and 80% in the final grant year, with the program becoming a permanent part of the County budget thereafter.  PDMHALU' and its grant funding further the County's Strategic goals of financially sound government leveraging County funds with State funding, and professional, effective County organization, by developing, implementing, and operating a model program for services to clients with severe mental illness and intellectual disability facing allegations in the criminal justice system. We requested and TIDC approved an amended grant budget which offsets anticipated program cost increases due to step increases, COLAs, and contractual requirements.

The Grant Renewal Application has been submitted to the County Attorney's Office, and the County Administration Department for review.  The notice of grant award has been reviewed and approved by the County Attorney's Office.