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Contact Special Litigation Unit (Mental Health)
We’re here Monday – Friday
Monday – Friday · 8:00am – 4:30pm
Main Office
201 Poplar Ave, Suite 2-01
Memphis, TN 38103
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If you or a family member has been charged and may have a mental illness, ask your attorney — or any SCPD attorney — about a referral to the Special Litigation Unit (Mental Health) or the Jericho Project.
Our Special Litigation Unit (Mental Health) represents clients across all Shelby County courts whose cases involve serious mental illness — from diversion through the Jericho Project, to competency proceedings, mental health defenses, and post-conviction advocacy. We believe that people in mental health crisis belong in treatment, not behind bars.
What We Do
Mental illness intersects with the criminal justice system in complex ways. Competency to stand trial, the insanity defense, diversion to treatment — these are specialized legal tools that require attorneys who understand both the law and the clinical context. Our attorneys work alongside licensed social workers and mental health professionals on every case.
Mental Health Defense
We raise mental health defenses at every appropriate stage — including challenges to competency to stand trial, not guilty by reason of insanity, and diminished capacity arguments at sentencing. These defenses require expert witnesses, careful investigation, and attorneys who understand mental health law.
The Jericho Project
The Jericho Project is our jail diversion program, connecting eligible defendants with serious mental illness to community-based treatment rather than incarceration. It is open to all Shelby County defendants — not only SCPD clients. Screening begins before arraignment. Learn more about the Jericho Project →
Embedded Social Workers
Licensed social workers are embedded in our Special Litigation Unit (Mental Health). They assess clients, develop service plans, and coordinate referrals to mental health, housing, and substance use treatment — working alongside attorneys from the first interview through sentencing.
Common Questions
Does my loved one have to be an SCPD client to access the Jericho Project?
No. The Jericho Project is open to all Shelby County defendants with serious mental illness, regardless of who their attorney is. Ask any court officer, attorney, or call (901) 222-2800 and ask for the Jericho Project.
What is competency to stand trial?
A person must be competent — able to understand the proceedings and assist in their own defense — to stand trial. If we believe a client may not be competent, we petition the court for a mental health evaluation. If found incompetent, the client is sent for treatment rather than prosecuted.
Can a mental health diagnosis help at sentencing?
Yes. Mental health history, trauma, and diagnosis are all mitigation factors that can influence a judge’s sentencing decision. Our attorneys and social workers work together to present this information fully and compellingly.
Find your attorney
Search the directory for direct contact information for every attorney in this division.