therapeutic jurisprudence
Legal approach that considers the therapeutic and anti-therapeutic consequences of laws and legal procedures on individuals.
Full Definition
Therapeutic jurisprudence is an interdisciplinary approach to law that examines the extent to which legal rules, procedures, and the roles of legal actors produce therapeutic or anti-therapeutic consequences for individuals involved in the legal system. This framework is particularly relevant in behavioral health law, including mental health courts, drug courts, and civil commitment proceedings. Therapeutic jurisprudence seeks to identify ways that legal processes can be reformed to promote psychological well-being while maintaining traditional legal values such as due process and justice. The approach emphasizes collaboration between legal and mental health professionals to achieve both legal and therapeutic goals.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize interdisciplinary nature and application to behavioral health legal contexts.
In Context
- "The mental health court applied therapeutic jurisprudence principles in its treatment-oriented sentencing approach." — Legal case study
- "Therapeutic jurisprudence training helped court personnel understand the psychological impact of legal procedures." — Professional development report