§ 40.1-5-24 - Rights and powers of mental health advocate. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 40.1-5-24

   § 40.1-5-24  Rights and powers of mentalhealth advocate. – The mental health advocate shall have the following rights and powers:

   (1) To communicate privately by mail or orally with anyperson in treatment.

   (2) To inspect all records relating to persons in treatmentprovided that the person in treatment or his or her guardian gives writtenpermission.

   (3) To take whatever steps are appropriate to see thatpersons are made aware of the services of the mental health advocate's office,its purpose, and how it can be contacted. Officials in charge of each facilityshall cooperate with the mental health advocate in this respect.

   (4) To take such actions that he or she deems appropriate toprotect the rights of those criminally insane patients included within theforensic unit of the department of mental health, retardation, and hospitalsand those previously considered to be within the authority of the interstatecompact on the mentally disordered offender.

   (5) To take necessary action to protect the rights of clientsof community mental health centers.

   (6) To provide legal representation for indigent personsreceiving inpatient treatment for substance abuse.