Mental Health Cases

Michele understands the unique challenges clients face with underlying mental health diagnoses. Her thoughtful approach takes into consideration the client’s treatment needs, a robust defense, and mitigating the impact of a criminal charge.

The most important part of representing a client with a mental health diagnosis is conveying to the prosecutor how their mental health affects their criminal culpability. An individual with a serious mental health condition may not understand all the consequences of their actions. Depending on the diagnosis, Michele’s strategy may include a defense of diminished capacity or a resolution that simply involves ongoing treatment.

Helping the client find the treatment they need is also a part of Michele’s approach. Prosecutors are often willing to reduce charges when they are assured an individual’s treatment needs are being met. She has fostered relationships with highly respected psychiatrists, psychologists, neuropsychologists, and substance abuse experts in Washington state. It is absolutely critical to find the best “fit” for a client if a forensic mental health evaluation is a necessary part of the defense.