Good Reads
Welcome to Good Reads, your go-to destination for in-depth exploration of online publications concerning the intricacies of civil commitment in the State of Texas. Dive into a curated collection of thought-provoking articles, insightful analyses, and authoritative resources that shed light on the legal and ethical dimensions surrounding involuntary commitment. From discussions on mental health laws to personal narratives and expert opinions, this section offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in civil commitment proceedings specific to the Texan context. Stay informed, engaged, and empowered as you navigate through this indispensable resource, designed to enrich your knowledge and foster a well-rounded perspective on civil commitment in the Lone Star State.
The Forever Cure
"The Forever Cure" by Jordan Michael Smith, published in Harper's Magazine in January 2025, examines the practice of civil commitment in the United States, particularly focusing on the indefinite detention of individuals labeled as sexually violent predators. It discusses the legal, ethical, and human rights implications of confining people in facilities like Coalinga State Hospital, where detainees may be held indefinitely without clear pathways to release.
A HISTORY OF THE TEXAS
CIVIL COMMITMENT PROGRAM
Sex offense registries and civil commitment laws were created in the 1930s and 1940s during the previous wave of heightened sex panics that experts deem the “sexual psychopath era,” but fell out of favor in the 1960s and 1970s as states shifted to treatment-oriented programs.
Sexual Civil Commitment in Texas; What does Justice Look Like?
At 18 years old, Leo reluctantly accepted a 30-year plea agreement for aggravated sexual assault to avoid the risk of a potential life sentence at trial. His attorney assured him he could be paroled in 15 years with good behavior. But after 15 years...
Review of the Operations of State Counsel for Offenders Report.
Review of the Operations of State Counsel for Offenders Report by the State Bar of Texas Legal Services to the Poor in Criminal Matters Committee
Responding to Crimes of a Sexual Nature.
Responding to Crimes of a Sexual Nature: What We Really Want Is No More Victims.