How are involuntary commitments enforced?

In California, involuntary commitment is enforced through the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act (LPS Act). This act gives legal power to a mental health professional to involuntarily commit a person into a mental health facility for evaluation or treatment. When a person is placed on an involuntary commitment, a court hearing is scheduled within three or five days to decide whether their involuntary commitment should be extended. During the hearing, the court reviews evidence to determine if the person meets the criteria of an involuntary commitment. If the person does meet the criteria, the court will order the person to remain in the mental health facility for extended care or to receive treatment in an outpatient setting. The court also has the ability to order a person to comply with certain conditions of treatment, such as a medication regimen or psychotherapy. If the person does not comply with the terms of the court order, they can be arrested and face criminal charges. Involuntary commitment is a serious situation and must be carefully monitored and enforced. It is intended to protect those with mental health issues and help them get the care and treatment they need.

Related FAQs

What is the right to an attorney during a commitment proceeding?
What are the rights of families and children when dealing with mental illness?
What is the right to treatment while in custody?
What is the difference between a commitment to a hospital and a commitment to a specialized mental health facility?
What is the right to receive information about a mental health diagnosis?
What is the right to a guardianship or conservatorship?
What is the right to challenge a diagnosis?
What is the right to treatment in the least restrictive environment?
What is the difference between civil commitment and criminal commitment?
What is the Mental Health Parity Act?

How are involuntary commitments enforced?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts