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Mar 7, 2018 · The Baker Act allows 72 hours of involuntary observation to see whether someone is in fact an imminent danger to himself or others. Matthew was not, and after three awful days, he was put in a taxi and sent home. We were not informed when he was released.
Involuntary commitment laws vary from state to state. Learn how these laws outline the criteria, procedures and duration of involuntary commitment for people who are living with substance use disorders.
What is Involuntary Commitment? It is a confidential legal process that is managed through the Court and Clerk’s Office Special Proceedings and Estates division.
Involuntarily admitted suicidal patients maintain the right to refuse medications, but physicians can administer sedatives without consent if the patient becomes severely agitated or violent in the ED or psychiatric unit. Restraints and isolation are also allowed.
Involuntary treatment practice and procedure varies by region, by county and by hospital. WSHA recommends hospitals: Review the new law in full and consider the changes relevant to your emergency departments and/or involuntary treatment programs.
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It is possible for you to be released before the end of the 72 hours. But if the staff decides that you need continued treatment you can be held for a longer period of time. If you are held longer than 72 hours, you have the right to a lawyer and a qualified interpreter and a hearing before a judge.
People also ask
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Prepared by the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee February 2020. What is Massachusetts General Law Chapter 123, Section 35? Section 35 is a Massachusetts law that allows a person to request a court order requiring someone to be civilly committed and treated involuntarily for an alcohol or substance use disorder.1 .
