Since 1992, John Petrila has served as the chairman of the Florida Mental Health Institute's Department of Mental Health Law and Policy. The Department of Mental Health Law and Policy focuses its research, teaching, and training efforts upon the impact of civil and criminal justice systems on those diagnosed mentally disabled. The Department's agenda includes examining the impact of statutory and regulatory change upon individuals diagnosed as mentally disabled, as well as their families. The Department also explores the relationship between law and mental health policy. In addition to seven tenure earning faculty, the department includes the Professional Development Center (PDC). The PDC, utilizing approximately twenty instructors, provides training to individuals employed by the State of Florida who work with children affected by the child welfare, delinquency, and juvenile justice system.