When is a mental health evaluation or treatment involuntary?

In California, a mental health evaluation or treatment is involuntary when either a court or a designated professional orders it. This order is called an involuntary “certification” or “treatment”. Involuntary certification is the process used to determine if someone is in need of mental health treatment. A professional can request certification if they believe that someone is a danger to themselves or others, or is unable to provide for their basic needs. The request for an involuntary certification is reviewed by two mental health professionals, who then decide whether the person should be involuntarily certified. Involuntary treatment is a court-ordered stay in a mental health facility for a period of time. Usually, this order can last up to 30 days and can be renewed by the court if necessary. In order for a person to be involuntarily treated, they must have recently experienced a severe mental health episode, such as a suicide attempt, or been found to be a danger to themselves or others. In summary, in California, a mental health evaluation or treatment can be involuntary when it is ordered by a court or a designated professional. Involuntary certification is used to decide if someone needs mental health treatment, while involuntary treatment is a court-ordered stay in a facility.

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When is a mental health evaluation or treatment involuntary?

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