What is the legal standard for involuntary commitment?

Involuntary commitment is a legal process in California whereby a person is held against their will for their own safety or the safety of others due to mental health concerns. It is an important tool to ensure that individuals with severe mental health issues have access to appropriate treatment. Under California’s Mental Health Law, involuntary commitment is only appropriate when someone meets the legal standard of being a “danger to self or others.” This means that they must either be an immediate risk of harming themselves or someone else, or that they have a history of violence towards themselves or others. In order to be involuntarily committed, an individual must first have a psychiatric evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. This evaluation must include a determination that the individual meets the criteria of being a “danger to self or others.” If the evaluation confirms this criteria is met, then a court hearing must be held and a judge must decide if the individual meets the criteria for involuntary commitment. Involuntary commitment is a serious decision and can be a traumatic experience for the individual and their family. It should only be used as a last resort when other treatments have been unsuccessful. If the individual is involuntarily committed, they will have access to mental health services and will be monitored by mental health professionals.

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What is the legal standard for involuntary commitment?

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