Laura's Law

Laura's Law is a California state law that allows for court-ordered Assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) for people with severe mental illness who meet certain criteria. The law is named after Laura Wilcox, a mental health worker who was killed by a client in 2001.

History

Laura's Law was passed in 2002, following the murder of Laura Wilcox by a client at a Nevada County mental health clinic. The law is modeled after Kendra's Law, a similar law in New York state.

Provisions

Under Laura's Law, a court can order a person with a severe mental illness to receive outpatient treatment if they meet certain criteria. These include a recent history of hospitalizations or violent behavior, and a refusal to voluntarily participate in treatment. The law is intended to help people who are too sick to recognize their need for care.

Implementation

Implementation of Laura's Law varies by county. As of 2020, 23 of California's 58 counties have chosen to implement the law.

Controversy

Laura's Law has been controversial, with opponents arguing that it infringes on the civil liberties of people with mental illness. Supporters argue that the law is necessary to help those who are too sick to recognize their need for care.

See also

• Kendra's Law
• Assisted outpatient treatment
• Mental health law

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