CA AB829

Requires defendants convicted of animal abuse and granted probation to complete counseling designed to evaluate and treat behavior or conduct disorders, with the court considering whether to order a mental health evaluation.

If a mental health professional deems higher-level treatment necessary following evaluation, the defendant must complete that treatment as directed by the court.

Defendants must pay for counseling and mental health evaluations; courts may establish sliding fee schedules based on ability to pay, with exemptions for those meeting criteria under Government Code Section 68632.

Makes all records related to mental health evaluations and treatment confidential and prohibits their release or use in civil or criminal proceedings without the defendant's consent.

Applies to convictions under Penal Code Sections 286.5, 596, 597, 597.1, and 600.5 (animal cruelty and related offenses).