How to help when a person with mental illness is arrested

If you're handling the arrest of a family member or friend:

1. Find out where they are jailed: in New York State or in New York City.
2. Help them get their medication. 
3. Report any mistreatment or concerns.
4. Ask if they will give the public defender (or their lawyer if they hire a private one) permission to talk to you. 
5. Support them if they have to go to court.