Local Attorney Honored

Attorney Michael W. Mackniak of Naugatuck was honored Tuesday, April 28, 2004, at the annual meeting of the Connecticut Probate Assembly held at the Supreme Court Chambers in Hartford.

In comments delivered by the Honorable William J. Sullivan, Chief Justice, State of Connecticut, Judge James J. Lawlor, Probate Court Administrator and Dr. Ken Marcus, Medical Director, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Attorney Mackniak was recognized for his contribution to the Mental Health and Probate Court Community and for his dedication to the formation of Melissa's Project in collaboration with the Department of Mental Health and Probate Court Administration.

In addition to his general practice of law, representing clients in all aspects of Real Estate transactions, Personal injury andProbate matters, Mackniak is the executive director of a non-profit organization which focuses on the delivery of services available to clients of various social service organizations. Melissa's Project is one of the branches of this non-profit.

Melissa's Project is designed to empower clients of DMHAS in terms of their own discharge planning and treatment goals in order to alleviate the requirement of probate court involvement, hospitalization, de-compensation, and financial cost to thedepartment. Further, the project seeks to encourage increased participation on the part of legal representatives working within the probate court system.

The Project monitors the daily activity and treatment of the client via home visits, medical record reviews, and telephone contacts with treatment workers, medical providers, family and other professionals involved in the client's life. The Project reports regularly as to the client's progress, or lack thereof to the Conservator who makes the decisions regarding the course of action needed as to Ward accordingly.

Due to the collaboration of the Probate Court Administration and DMHAS and several other associated state agencies, the Project will have access to liaisons specially appointed amongst probate court personnel, local mental health authority staff, and hospital personnel in order to facilitate action on behalf of the client when necessary.

To date the project has shown remarkable results related to a dramatic reduction in hospitalization and incarceration due to de-compensation on part of the mentally ill. The benefits to the Probate Court System, Hospitals and Mental Health Community are immeasurable monetarily and in terms of manpower.

Most importantly, the clients serviced are given the opportunity to have a voice regarding goal setting and treatment planning, making the attainment of their hopes and dreams for a better life more realistic and possible.

For more information on Melissa's Project, to volunteer or offer your support, please call (203) 723-4332.