Kate Bonnici and Diomaris Safi are on a mission to bridge the gap between mental health and criminal justice. They are editing a new book titled Mental Health in Criminal Justice: A Practical Guide for Legal and Clinical Professionals, set to be published by the American Bar Association (ABA).
This book pairs experts from law and psychology, aiming to help legal and mental health professionals understand one another better. “We want to help both lawyers and mental health providers better serve justice,” Bonnici says. She is not only co-editing the book but also contributing chapters on key topics like teaching mental health in law schools and how it affects criminal intent.
Bonnici and Safi’s research dives into how legal education addresses mental health. With help from Pepperdine student researchers, they gathered data from ABA-accredited law schools about how often mental health issues appear in criminal law classes. Their findings show that many law students lack training in identifying mental health issues. This gap can lead to poor representation in legal cases, which may have severe consequences.
Bonnici, who has extensive legal and academic experience, believes that when lawyers understand mental health issues, it can greatly improve their advocacy. She holds degrees from Harvard University, New York University, and UCLA, blending her legal background with teaching and creative writing.
This book isn’t just an academic resource; it’s a push for reform in American legal education. Bonnici will also deliver a lecture titled “Minding Justice: Mental Health and Criminal Law” on February 11, 2026, as part of the W. David Baird Distinguished Lecture Series at Pepperdine University.
In a world where mental health awareness is rising, Bonnici’s work aligns with the growing recognition of its importance in various fields, including law. Her efforts resonate with a broader societal understanding that addressing mental health can lead to fairer outcomes in criminal justice.
Ultimately, Mental Health in Criminal Justice could change how future lawyers approach their work, equipping them with the knowledge they need to advocate for their clients effectively. As Bonnici puts it, “This work supports Pepperdine’s mission of caring for the world and promoting justice.”
