Clients using the services of the National Forensic Mental Health Service are referred mainly from the courts and prisons, however a small number come from other psychiatric hospitals.

• The courts send clients who are found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (N.G.R.I.) and those deemed Unfit to be tried.  
• Additionally the courts can refer persons for assessment under section 4.6 of the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act, 2006 for a period not more than 14 days.  
• Prisoners, both remanded and sentenced, suffering from acute mental illness may be sent to the CMH for treatment.  
• In certain circumstances clients may be transferred from other psychiatric hospitals under section 21(2) of the Mental Health Act, 2001.

Clients can expect to receive treatment based on current best practice within a secure therapeutic environment.