Those in Florida who are believed to be a threat to themselves or others due to a mental illness may be voluntarily admitted for assessment and treatment under the Baker Act.
In this blog, we will provide an overview of the Baker Act. It’s important to understand its purpose, and the steps involved in initiating it in Florida. Additionally, we will explore what it’s like to be “Baker Acted” and what individuals can expect during this process.
What is the Baker Act?
The Baker Act is a state law that enables involuntary examination. The involuntary short-term commitment of people going through a mental health crisis is a possibility. Baker Acts’ goal is to ensure that whosoever is in danger gets the help and support they need. It’s all about making sure individuals and the community are protected by providing the right evaluation and treatment to those at risk.
Similarly, the Baker Act allows for the involuntary admission of individuals to a designated psychiatric facility for up to 72 hours. During this time, experts in mental health evaluate the person’s situation and decide if they need more treatment or help. They carefully look at the person’s condition to figure out if there’s a need for additional support or intervention. It’s also critical to remember that the Baker Act is not meant to be harsh. However, it’s rather providing timely and appropriate care for individuals in crisis.
How Do You Baker Act Someone in Florida?
The Baker Act process in Florida involves specific steps and criteria that must be met before an individual can be involuntarily admitted for evaluation.
Recognize the need
It can be important to take the Baker Act into consideration if you think someone is a danger to themselves or others because of a mental health issue and they are refusing to ask for help openly.
Call law enforcement or a crisis hotline
In Florida, law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and physicians are authorized to initiate the Baker Act. Moreover, contact the non-emergency police number or a local crisis hotline to report the situation and provide them with all relevant information.
Evaluation by a professional
A certified professional, like a psychiatrist, mental health counselor, or law enforcement officer, will evaluate the person. Hence, this is to determine if there is a reasonable belief that they meet the criteria for involuntary examination under the Baker Act.
Petition for involuntary examination
If the professional determines that the person meets the criteria, they will complete a petition for involuntary examination, also known as a “Baker Act petition.” Moreover, this document will be submitted by the appropriate receiving facility.
What’s It Like to Be Baker Acted?
Evaluation and assessment
Upon arrival at the receiving facility, the individual will undergo an initial assessment by mental health professionals. Similarly, they will ask questions to gather information about the person’s condition and history.
Temporary Examination
The person may be temporarily held in the receiving facility for up to 72 hours for further evaluation and treatment. They will be attentively observed during this time and given the proper care and assistance.
Collaboration with the treatment team
The treatment plan requires a team that consists of psychiatrists, therapists, and nurses. Together, the team will collaborate and create a plan specifically tailored to address the person’s mental health issues and support their recovery. This team approach ensures that the person receives comprehensive care and support from different experts in the field. Moreover, medication, therapy, and other interventions may be utilized.
Rights and legal protection
Individuals who have been Baker Acted retain certain rights. For example, the right to be treated with dignity and respect, to access legal counsel, and to challenge their involuntary commitment through the court system if necessary.
Discharge or continued care
The team will determine whether the person requires further treatment at the end of the 72-hour period. Additionally, they may be discharged if they no longer meet the criteria for involuntary commitment, or their treatment may continue based on their needs.
