The Legal Division staff serve as General Counsel to the Department, represent the Department in litigation, draft legislation, testify at legislative hearings, and promulgates Department rules and regulations. The Division provides funding for services, systems planning, technical assistance, training, quality assurance, program monitoring, and standards compliance. The Division also exercises guardianship on behalf of the Commissioner to more than 500 people who are under court-ordered protective services, and lack the active assistance of a family member or private guardian. Services offered emphasize the development of the capacity of generic community resources to meet the needs of all individuals regardless of severity of disability. Services are provided to over 2,300 people with disabilities and their families through ten Designated Agencies, four Specialized Service Agencies and 2 Certified Providers.
All providers are private, nonprofit developmental service agencies.
Following the successful closure of the Brandon Training School in November 1993, all services to people with developmental disabilities are provided in local communities throughout the state. Services include support coordination, home supports, community supports, work supports, crisis services, and family support. The CMHC's provide mental health services to children, adults, and elders living in the community. Services include evaluation, case management, respite, psychotherapy, residential programs, and emergency response to mental health crises. The Child, Adolescent, and Family Unit, under the direction of Charles Biss, MSW , is charged with planning and implementing a comprehensive community-based system of care for children and adolescents experiencing, or at substantial risk of developing, a severe emotional disturbance.