Baker Act in Florida, USA, was formed to help individuals get the much-needed medical assistance so they don’t harm themselves or others. However, there is still a lot of confusion, misconceptions, and lack of information regarding the Baker Act cases. We’ll discuss everything today in this blog.
Is the Baker Act Only in Florida?
Yes, the Baker Act law is only applicable and functional in the state of Florida. However, the term “Baker Acting” has become prevalent across other regions of the United States for involuntary commitment. Every state has its own law about involuntary psychiatric commitment.
Can You Refuse the Baker Act?
Refusing a baker’s act is not possible. If anyone does not want to stay, and does not meet the criteria, they should be evaluated according to Baker Act procedures and released.
If an individual refuses a voluntary examination, they automatically fall into the criteria of involuntary institutionalization. In this circumstance, the authorized parties have the right to hold that individual for up to 72 hours until they evaluate their condition.
The Consequences of Being a Baker Acted
Some people take the Baker Act for granted without knowing its consequences for the people involved. Although the consequences entirely depend on the situations and circumstances, somebody who’s been baker recently will undergo these potential consequences:
- It all starts with evaluation of a patient’s mental health and dangerousness.
- In a non-Baker facility, doctors will shift them to a psychiatric facility for further assessments and treatments until they are ready to act normally.
- You can say that someone who’s been Baker Acted will lose temporary freedom because the doctors will detain them for psychiatric evaluation. We don’t have to emphasize the challenges and mental stress.
- A baker act attorney can navigate through legal consequences if it is a wrongful baker act in which you must involve a top-notch baker act attorney who specializes in this particular area of law.
- People who fall under the baker act often come across societal mimicry because there’s a social stigma associated with it.
How Can Someone Challenge Being Baker Acted?
The first step is to contact Talmadge Law Firm regarding your Baker Act case. If you or your loved one has been the victim of a Wrongfully Backer Act in the state of Florida, you will need legal assistance to build your case for freedom.
We’ll guide you about your legal rights in this matter and what you can do. By working with us, you get the expertise of a professional legal team. A team that specializes in this particular area of law. We get your significant other discharged from psychiatric hospitalization without going to an office, and you also get regulatory complaints written and submitted to Florida authorities.