A pilot project that helps keep mentally ill people out of prison is being extended.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission set up a mental health court – which handles cases that otherwise would be streamed through regular criminal courts – more than a year ago.

Geoff Chaulk says the mental health court should be a permanent feature of the justice system. (CBC)
Geoff Chaulk says the mental health court should be a permanent feature of the justice system. (CBC)

The court, which heard more than 50 cases last year, was deemed successful enough to warrant extended funding from the federal and provincial governments.

"Judges are very reluctant to put people with mental illnesses in jail, but do so when they feel there is no alternative," said Peter Ralph, a defence lawyer who has worked in the criminal justice system for the last 15 years.

Ralph, who often represents mentally ill clients, said the mental health court provides a meaningful alternative.

He works closely with a nurse and social worker from the court, who help clients get their lives back on track. The team helps people with everything from finding a doctor or a place to live to finding employment.

Ralph said that support helps break the cycle of going in and out of prison.

"I've seen some clients go through – who I've been familiar with over the years – and seen them cycling through the criminal justice system and the mental health system," Ralph said.

"It's quite remarkable how well they are doing."

The extended funding means the court can continue for another year.

Geoff Chaulk, executive director of the Newfoundland and Labrador division of the Canadian Mental Health Association, wants the mental health court to be made permanent.

"They need to keep this program alive," Chaulk said.

"I think when you can say that success has been reached or made, it's really hard to go back."