Bail Bonds and Mental Illness

It is possible, per Texas law, to address mental illness when it comes down to bail bonds, and the person can be released on personal bond.

It is possible, per Texas law, to address mental illness when it comes down to bail bonds, and the person can be released on personal bond. 

There are strings attached to it, because every situation is different, and the defendant’s history is considered, especially in regards to their possible violent offenses.

Article 17.03(b) (1) the defendant is not charged with and has not been previously convicted of a violent offense;

With assigned expert is possible to conclude, under Article 16.22:

(A) concludes that the defendant has a mental illness or is a person with an intellectual disability and is nonetheless competent to stand trial; and

(B) recommends mental health treatment or intellectual and developmental disability services for the defendant, as applicable;

Finally, when everything is weighed-in, the expert opinion, the judge, and everyone else involved:

that release on personal bond would reasonably ensure the defendant’s appearance in court as required and the safety of the community and the victim of the alleged offense.

(c) The magistrate, unless good cause is shown for not requiring treatment or services, shall require as a condition of release on personal bond under this article that the defendant submit to outpatient or inpatient mental health treatment or intellectual and developmental disability services as recommended by the service provider that contracts with the jail to provide mental health or intellectual and developmental disability services, the local mental health authority, the local intellectual and developmental disability authority, or another qualified mental health or intellectual and developmental disability expert if the defendant’s:

(1) mental illness or intellectual disability is chronic in nature; or

(2) ability to function independently will continue to deteriorate if the defendant does not receive the recommended treatment or services.

(d) In addition to a condition of release imposed under Subsection (c), the magistrate may require the defendant to comply with other conditions that are reasonably necessary to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court as required and the safety of the community and the victim of the alleged offense.

(e) In this article, a person is considered to have been convicted of an offense if:

(1) a sentence is imposed;

(2) the person is placed on community supervision or receives deferred adjudication; or

(3) the court defers final disposition of the case.

As always, the best option is to contact Atlas Bail and go over available info and all the details. With our experience, knowledge and great customer service, we can have your loved ones back to you as soon as the law will allow us. From the moment you show up in our office we understand your need for guidance and help. The fact that a person is in jail is only the beginning of the process. Selecting AAA Atlas Bail is an important first step. With years of experience in our office, we most definitely will have the right answer for you.

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