Boston Bipolar Disorder Lawyer

Experienced Bipolar Disorder Attorney in Boston, MA

In order to convict someone successfully of a crime, the prosecuting attorney must be able to demonstrate that the defendant acted in an intentional way when the crime was committed. In cases where the defendant suffers the impacts of bipolar disorder, it is important that a skilled Boston bipolar disorder lawyer is hired who understands both the applicable law and the realities of life with a mental disability.

Elizabeth Kelley: Providing Criminal Defense for Those With Mental Disabilities Nationwide

Whether you have been accused and arrested for public disturbance in Back Bay or because of assault allegations stemming from a misunderstanding near Reggie Wong Memorial Park, it is imperative that you work with Elizabeth Kelley, an attorney who serves individuals with mental disabilities both in Boston and nationwide.

Elizabeth Kelley has contributed to several publications regarding mental disability and criminal law and served three terms on the board of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Now she is here to turn her time and attention to the case your loved one is currently facing.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder and the Criminal Charges Commonly Associated With It

In the United States, bipolar disorder is considered a serious mental illness and disability. There are several possible diagnoses related to bipolar disorder, including Bipolar I, which occurs when an individual suffers one or more manic episodes that are often followed by a depressive episode. In the most difficult situations, psychosis can occur. Bipolar II involves depressive episodes and a less severe form of mania, referred to as hypomania.

It is crucial to hire a defense attorney who understands bipolar disorder and its common symptoms. As of April 2025, around 2.8% of adults living in the United States suffered from some form of bipolar disorder. In Massachusetts, the state’s emergency room hospitalization rate for bipolar disorder is around 93.6 per 100,000 members of the state population, and 1,155,000 adults in Massachusetts deal with some kind of mental health condition.

There are certain criminal charges that can be associated with bipolar disorder, but at Elizabeth Kelley, we want to make it clear that just because an individual suffers from bipolar disorder, that does not equate a predisposition to commit a crime. These criminal charges include:

• Assault or aggression. For some individuals, manic episodes can lead to increased irritability and impulsive behavior. Both of these symptoms can lead to confrontations or physical altercations, which may result in an arrest for assault or battery.
• Theft and fraud. When someone experiences a manic episode, they might engage in theft or impulsive spending, driven by a need to experience instant gratification. This could lead an individual to face charges of credit card fraud, shoplifting, and other similar crimes.
• Substance abuse-related offenses. Among individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder, self-medicating is a common issue. In fact, according to a recent study published in 2025, 60% of individuals who deal with bipolar disorder may also struggle with addiction and substance abuse. This can more easily lead to charges of drug possession or driving under the influence.
• Domestic violence. Suffering from bipolar disorder can place strain on personal relationships, especially when severe mood swings are involved. Manic episodes, which can lead to poor judgment, can result in situations categorized as domestic violence and lead to criminal accusations.
• Public disturbances. Certain forms of manic behavior may also manifest in ways that actually cause disruptive actions, such as erratic actions, disorderly conduct, and outbursts, all of which can lead to public disturbance charges.

If a loved one who deals with bipolar disorder in Boston has recently been charged with a crime, they deserve the legal counsel and representation from an attorney who understands how their mental disability comes into play. Just because someone deals with the behaviors associated with bipolar disorder, it does not mean that they will automatically become a criminal, but when charges are filed against them, it can prove to be an effective part of their defense.

At Elizabeth Kelley, we recognize this and have the training required to recognize your disability and how it affects criminal cases. Confronting these legal challenges requires actively breaking the stigma of mental illness in the criminal justice system, protecting your loved one from harmful biases held by prosecutors, judges, or law enforcement. Our team is here to protect your loved one from these harmful assumptions and defend them against any charges they come up against.

FAQs

How Can a Lawyer Prove Bipolar Disorder in Court?

In order to prove a defendant is dealing with bipolar disorder, and to therefore be able to use it as a viable defense, your lawyer can gather medical records, expert testimony, and psychiatric evaluations to help prove your diagnosis. Professional witnesses can also be called forward to provide testimony regarding an individual’s mental state.

Can Bipolar Disorder Be Used as a Defense in Boston, CA?

Yes, in Boston, certain cases, you may be able to use your bipolar disorder diagnosis as a significant piece in your defense. In order for the prosecution to be able to convict you, they need to be able to prove you committed the crime with intent. However, for individuals experiencing a manic or depressive episode, intent may be called into question.

What Challenges Can Be Faced by Someone With Bipolar Disorder in a Criminal Case?

In a criminal case, there are several challenges that can be faced by a defendant who suffers the effects of bipolar disorder and other similar mental disabilities. These challenges can include an overall lack of awareness and training on mental disabilities on both the side of the judge and the prosecution. Furthermore, institutional gaps mean that a study shows solitary confinement is used more on those with mental illness inside prisons, turning severe behavioral symptoms into reasons for systemic punishment rather than therapeutic care.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bipolar Lawyer?

When it comes to hiring a bipolar lawyer, the costs involved will vary on a case-by-case and lawyer-to-lawyer basis. These costs will typically be influenced by a range of factors present in your case, including the severity of the charges brought against you, the complexity and duration of your case, and the skill level and experience of your attorney.

Hire a Bipolar Disorder Lawyer Today

When the time comes to hire a bipolar disorder lawyer in Boston, look no further than the nationwide team at Elizabeth Kelley. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your loved one and to schedule a consultation.

Boston, MA Bipolar Disorder Resources

• Are Mentally Ill Prisoners Being Punished for Symptoms Rather Than Treated?

• People with Mental Disabilities Are More Likely to Be Crime Victims Than Criminals

• Understanding the Barriers to Mental Health Care for People with Disabilities

• Cognitive Disability: The Most Common Disability in the Prison Population

• How a White House Report Shows Increased Mental Health Spending Reduces Crime Costs

• Exploring Structural Alternatives to Incarceration for Non-Violent Offenders

• Why Serious Mental Illness Increases Risks in Police Encounters