Guardians of Justice: Advocating for Behavioral Health in the Legal System
Our goal is to make sure that the people who need to be in treatment get there and get there as quickly as possible, so that they can start their recovery journey and start to get their life back together.
Imagine being unable to afford legal representation and navigating the criminal justice system alone. In this episode of 'Stigmatized', Dan Schubert and Leann Kane from the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy share their experiences of providing legal support to those who can't afford it. Dan, the directing attorney, and Leann, a dedicated social worker, shed light on the demanding nature of their work and the critical role they play in defending the rights of vulnerable individuals.
The episode dives into the often-overlooked intersection of legal advocacy and behavioral health. You'll hear about the heavy workloads and emotional resilience required to protect those who can't protect themselves. The conversation also touches on the impact of stigma on mental health and addiction, stressing the importance of access to compassionate treatment rather than punitive measures.
Leann passionately explains, 'Our goal is to make sure that the people who need to be in treatment get there and get there as quickly as possible, so that they can start their recovery journey and start to get their life back together'. This sentiment underscores the broader theme of the episode: the urgent need for criminal justice reform and the progress being made in recent years.
Whether you're interested in behavioral health advocacy, criminal justice reform, or simply want to understand the challenges faced by those working in public defense, this episode offers valuable insights. It's a compelling listen for anyone who believes in the power of empathy and the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect.