For individuals in Forsyth County struggling with severe mental health conditions and facing criminal charges, the traditional justice system often fails to address the underlying issues driving their behavior. The CARE Program, Forsyth County’s Mental Health Court, provides a compassionate alternative that connects participants with community-based treatment resources while offering a structured path through the legal system.
What Is the CARE Program?
The CARE Program is specifically designed to help offenders identified with severe and persistent mental health diagnoses. Rather than simply processing individuals through criminal courts, this program links participants to local treatment resources, counseling, medication management, and support services that address the mental health conditions contributing to their legal troubles.
The CARE Program operates on a minimum 24-month treatment timeline for felony cases and 18 months for misdemeanor cases. Participants attend status review hearings up to twice monthly and treatment sessions up to twice weekly, with random drug screenings two to three times per week.
Eligibility Requirements for Forsyth County Mental Health Court
To qualify for the CARE Program in Cumming, GA, individuals must meet these criteria, but exceptions can be made:
- Documented history of severe and persistent mental health diagnosis (or consistent evidence of related behavior)
- Current involvement in the legal system with charges connected to mental illness
- No violent charges or involvement in drug sale/distribution within the last three years
- No trafficking convictions in lifetime
- At least 19 years old
- Legal U.S. residency
- Residence in Forsyth County or an adjacent county (with approval)
- For probation referrals: minimum 30 months remaining (felony) or 24 months (misdemeanor)
How to Enter the CARE Program
The referral process begins with legal vetting through the prosecutor’s office. Referrals can be sought by defense attorneys. Once approved, the coordinator schedules a comprehensive assessment, verifies residency, obtains pertinent medical records, and meets with the potential participant. Critically, individuals must agree to take prescribed mental health medications as part of their treatment plan.
Program Rules and Expectations
CARE Program participants must adhere to strict guidelines:
- No alcohol, drugs, or firearms in the home
- No employment at establishments where alcohol is the primary sale
- No vaping or energy drinks
- Limited travel with court approval (no international travel)
- All medications must be pre-approved
The Importance of Mental Health Courts in Georgia
Georgia has made significant investments in mental health services, with the FY 2026 budget allocating over $1.7 billion for behavioral health and developmental disabilities. Mental health courts like Forsyth County’s CARE Program play a vital role in connecting individuals with these resources while reducing recidivism and improving quality of life.
Every case is different—if you believe someone may benefit from the CARE Program, Contact our office to speak with an attorney regarding your specific situation.
The Forsyth County Accountability Courts Office is located at 425 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040, telephone: 678-455-4780.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This blog contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments. If you’re facing criminal charges in Forsyth County, contact our office to discuss your specific situation.
