What is the standard for involuntary commitment?

In Maryland, the standard for involuntary commitment is legally known as Involuntary Admission. Involuntary Admission is an involuntary psychiatric hospitalization authorized by a court when it is believed necessary to protect a person from harming himself or others. The court must find that the individual is mentally ill and poses a danger to himself or others, or is unable to care for himself. In order to commit someone in Maryland, the court must examine all available information, including the individual’s mental health history, psychiatric evaluations, and reports from law enforcement. The court must also consider the opinion of at least one licensed mental health professional before it can order the person’s involuntary admission. For an individual to be involuntarily committed in Maryland, the court must also find that involuntary hospitalization is the least restrictive and most appropriate means of treatment. This means that alternative methods of treatment have been considered, such as outpatient treatment with medication or therapy, but they were found to be insufficient. Involuntary commitment is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. It is intended to provide treatment that can help an individual to improve their mental health status and keep them safe. It should not be used as a tool to punish or control someone.

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What is the standard for involuntary commitment?

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