Tennessee Code Title 16. Courts § 16-19-102

(1) To reduce the use of jail and prison beds and other correctional services by offenders with mental health disorders by diverting them into treatment programs;

(2) To improve court efficiency by substituting a problem-solving model for traditional criminal court processing and linking defendants to effective treatment and supports for mental illness;

(3) To improve the quality of life of people with severe and persistent mental illnesses and increase their participation in effective treatment;

(4) To promote the public safety by reducing the incidence of crimes committed as a result of mental health disorders; and

(5) To promote effective interaction and the use of resources among local criminal justice agencies and community agencies.