The New York State Department of Mental Hygiene and the State's division for youth administered the court-related unit program between February 1976 and April 1979, which aimed to diagnose and stabilize clients. Service were provided in a 10-bed in-patient diagnostic unit and in a 20-bed long-term treatment unit. Although studies revealed that the program had a positive effect on the attitudes and behavior of its clients and that other programs were not as effective, it was discontinued for a number of reasons. Major difficulties and criticism were experienced throughout the program's existence. During the first 2 years, less than 50 percent of the available beds went unused due to a lack of appropriate referrals and publicity, and per diem costs reached $400 per client. A perception that funds were being wasted was the result. In addition, the program was originally viewed as a panacea to the problems experienced in dealing with mentally distubed and violent youths; however, many referrals were judged inappropriate, and the program's inability to fill all needs was a frequent point of criticism. The political and social climate of the period also affected the program's continuation. ''Get tough' and ''lock-them up' attitudes and legislation spread, and the violent juvenile became a frequent target. Program clients were among the perpetrators of some of the State's most heinous crimes, and opponents objected to the fact that these offenders should recieve more costly treatment than less violent delinquents. A 18-item reference list is included.