Collin County Adult Mental Health Court

In February of 2023, Judge Jennifer Edgeworth helped launch the now award-winning Collin County Adult Mental Health Court.  This specialty court is a groundbreaking initiative that represents an innovative approach to justice, steering mentally ill offenders away from the conventional criminal justice system and into a court-monitored outpatient treatment program. Judge Jennifer Edgeworth presides over the court with Judge Lance Baxter.

Participants of the program feature individuals with diverse backgrounds navigating their first encounter with the criminal justice system due to episodes of mental illness. Throughout their involvement, participants consistently engage with counselors and the dedicated specialty court team, while receiving essential support from community partner Life Path.

A testament to the transformative impact of the Adult Mental Health Court, one graduate shared, “Before joining the program, I felt trapped by my past and the mistakes I had made. The weight of my mental health struggles, combined with the burden of a criminal record, made it difficult to envision a brighter future. However, the Adult Mental Health Court offered me a lifeline, a chance to break free from the cycle of despair and embrace a fresh start in life.”

Generously funded by a grant from Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s office, the program is available to individuals aged 17 and older with mental health diagnoses such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, major depression, bipolar disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), residing in Collin County. Currently, the program boasts 22 participants and continues to grow, a testament to the collaborative efforts and unwavering support from key stakeholders, including DA Greg Willis, Sheriff Jim Skinner, CSCD Director Leticia Gibbs, the Collin County Commissioners, and the criminal defense bar.

Judge Edgeworth emphasizes, “We are encouraged daily by the dedication of the individuals in the specialty court who are committed to making their lives better and contributing positively to their community. As a result of the accountability and support provided, we have seen participants get their GED, obtain employment and housing, mend relationships with family members, and maintain sobriety.”