Mental Health Law

The Mental Health Law Group represents individuals and families in civil litigation, negotiations and crisis situations specific to mental health issues and/or alcohol/substance use disorders. We assist clients in navigating the complex and intertwined legal and clinical systems to maximize the legal resources available under the Mental Hygiene Law. 

Our knowledge of the Mental Hygiene Law extends to inpatient hospitalization matters including retention and treatment over objection hearings as well as consultation and advice regarding discharge planning.In the community setting, we are well-versed in applications for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (also known as Kendra’s Law), a valuable tool for individuals who refuse medication and/or mental health services and are frequently hospitalized. Our practice also includes adult guardianship proceedings, Mental Hygiene Warrant proceedings, and representation of clients in Family Court Order of Protection matters.

Recognizing that mental health issues touch upon many other areas of practice, the Mental Health Law Group collaborates with other Groups at the Firm, including our accomplished Real Estate Group. We represent landlords, coop/condo boards, and management companies in matters where an individual engages in disruptive behavior, objectionable conduct and/or hoarding, among other issues. With our Taxation and Estates Group, we consult on mental health issues in both estate planning and litigation, including, but not limited to, determining or challenging capacity to sign documents or serve as a fiduciary, evaluating an individual’s ability to manage assets as a fiduciary or beneficiary, and advising on planning tools such as Supplemental Needs Trusts.