The Michigan Supreme Court announced on May 6 that it will hold three local workshops across Michigan in May and June to address the needs of individuals with behavioral health challenges who are involved in, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system.
These workshops, called Sequential Intercept Mapping (SIM) sessions, aim to bring together stakeholders from various sectors including law enforcement, hospitals, mental health agencies, jails, corrections, and county prosecutors’ offices. The goal is to collaborate on diverting people with behavioral health needs into treatment rather than further involvement in the criminal justice system.
“Bringing together leaders in behavioral health and the justice system is essential to ensuring that individuals with significant needs are connected to treatment rather than cycling deeper into the criminal justice system,” said Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh. “These SIM workshops will help communities identify gaps, strengthen collaboration, and build sustainable pathways that promote both public safety and individual well‑being.”
The SIM process uses a conceptual model to inform community-based responses for people with mental and substance use disorders who come into contact with the criminal justice system. The mapping identifies key points—known as intercepts—where intervention can occur, from crisis care through law enforcement interaction, court proceedings, and reentry.
Previous SIM efforts began in Wayne County where similar workshops have been held multiple times for both adults and juveniles. The upcoming events expand these initiatives statewide during Mental Health Awareness Month.
