Criminal Justice

Mental Health Public Defender

Mental Health Public Defender staff

Standing: Anthony Macias, Case Worker; Antonia Blasini-Vargas, Office Specialist; Cathy Jonse, Administrative Associate; Stephanie Doyle, LMSW; Karen Hunt, Caseworker. Sitting: Melissa Shearer, Attorney; Valerie Whiting, LCSE, Case Management Coordinator; Jeanette Kinard, Director/Attorney

Jeanette Kinard, Director

2201 Post Road, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78704

Phone: (512) 854-3030
Fax: (512) 854-3037

Program Description

The Travis County Mental Health Public Defender (MHPD) Office began in April 2007 to serve the needs of persons with mental illness in the criminal justice system. Our staff includes two lawyers, two social workers, two case workers and two support staff.

The social and case workers are also available to assist private court appointed attorneys. Referrals are made for a variety of social services. Follow-up case management services are also provided.

Referral Procedures

Cases are primarily referred to the MHPD through Travis County Court Administration. Referrals are also made by judges, attorneys, pre-trial services or mental health advocacy groups.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a Travis County case;
• Must be a misdemeanor;
• Client must be defined as indigent according to the county-standard definition;
• Must have at least one major priority population diagnosis including:
  • schizophrenia,
  • bi-polar disorder,
  • major depression and/or schizoaffective disorder
• Must NOT have a Travis County felony or felony probation pending.

The Travis County Mental Health Public Defender office is operated in connection with Travis County Criminal Justice Planning.

MHPD video: A Different Kind of Law “Holistic Justice For The Mentally Ill”.

Last Modified:
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 2:29 PM