The Basics
Can I get help in the forensic system for other challenges other than mental health?
Yes - many forensic/psychiatric hospitals also have programs to help with substance use, concurrent disorders, family problems, social skills, sexual problems, financial difficulties, physical health problems.
Name 2 members of your team that can help make decisions about treatment/the ORB?
The psychiatrist, social worker, occupational therapist, recreation therapist, nurse, behavior therapist, dietician, peer support worker, hospitalist, nurse practitioner, APCL, psychologist, manager
What is the forensic mental system?
It is the system that cares for people with mental illness who have come into contact with the law. The role of the forensic mental health system is not to punish, but to help rehabilitate and reintegrate people into the community.
What does ORB stand for?
Ontario Review Board
How many levels are in the forensic pass ladder?
There are 9 levels
Where can I turn for help if I feel I am being treated unfairly?
If you cannot solve a problem with your team, there are other people you can turn to:
Name at least 3 people within the forensic mental health system
Defense counsel, duty counsel, crown counsel, judge, court support workers, psychiatrist, nurse, psychologist, social worker, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, patient advocates, police
How often do you have an ORB hearing?
Happens annually (once a year)
What is “risk” defined as under the ORB?
Risk is the probability or threat of danger, damage, injury or loss.
When we’re talking about RISK in the ORB report, we are talking about STATIC risk and DYNAMIC risk.
What are 2 or 3 things that you can do that are part of your treatment plan?
Medications, participating in groups, treatment mall, volunteering, work, utilizing passes appropriately, and other 1:1 interventions/counselling
Name two of your rights under the client bill of rights
Who makes up the ORB Panel at the hearing?
Chairperson (either a senior lawyer or a retired judge), psychiatrist, mental health professional, lawyer, community member
What does “Not Criminally Responsible” mean?
The Criminal Code of Canada states that you are NCR for an offence if a mental disorder prevents you from appreciating the nature of your actions OR knowing that your actions were wrong.
What happens immediately after the hearing?
The ORB will make a disposition. This is a decision/order which states:
How long do I need to stay in hospital?
This is reviewed every year and depends on your progress which includes treatment plan, goals, programs, etc.
What is in the report prepared by the hospital for the ORB hearing?
The report outlines all the work that has been done by you and your team:
Can I appeal an ORB decision?
There is a process of appeal if you believe that the ORB has made an unfair decision. You cannot appeal the decision just because you don't like it; you have to be able to argue that the decision was not made fairly or lawfully. Talk to your lawyer to find out more about whether you have grounds to appeal.
When am I no longer under the authority of the ORB?
When you have been granted an absolute discharge.
What are the possible outcomes of an ORB hearing?
Detention order:
Conditional discharge:
Absolute discharge
After an absolute discharge, do I still have to be in contact with mental health professionals?
No, but what are some benefits if you were to stay connected?