Sometimes, life gives us challenges that we just don’t see coming, especially when it concerns our mental health. In Florida, there’s a term called the “Baker Act.” This procedure gives family, friends, psychologists, counselor, psychiatrists, and healthcare professionals a right for an individual’s involuntary examination that can lead to commitment to a mental health facility if they’re not in their right state of mind.
If someone poses a danger to themselves or people around them, there’s an option for involuntary examination in a mental health facility. However, if you or someone you know has been wrongfully Baker Acted, you must contact a Baker Act center to help you legally.
The Process for an Involuntary Evaluation
You must have commonly heard the term being “Baker Acted,” especially in Florida. It means that an individual was showing signs of harm to themselves or people around them. This is why they’re held in a mental health facility to evaluate further.
The initial determination can be made by one of 3 types of people:
- When the court allows or orders an individual for an involuntary evaluation if they meet the eligibility criteria of it.
- A law enforcement officer is allowed to send a person for involuntary evaluation if they show signs of potential danger.
- A medical doctor, a clinical psychologist, a psychiatric nurse, a mental health counselor, a marriage and family therapist, or a clinical social worker may issue a certificate that they have evaluated the person within 48 hours and realized any indicators of qualifying for the evaluation.
When Do You Need Legal Support?
Baker Act Feels Wrong
Sometimes someone is Baker Acted based on inaccurate information or misunderstanding. Therefore, hiring a Baker Act attorney is helpful for reviewing your case, gathering valid evidence, and getting them released ASAP.
If Your Loved One Has Been Baker Acted
No one would ever want to see their loved ones suffer, and here’s what you can do for them. Hire a lawyer so they can build a case, file a complaint, protect the victim’s rights, and challenge the initial Baker Act if necessary.
Extended Involuntary Commitment
Initially, healthcare professionals have the right to hold an individual for up to 72 hours without court involvement by filing a petition. After that, a court hearing determines whether an individual should stay there longer or not. But if you believe that your loved one should be immediately released and the extended period is unjustified, a lawyer can help.
The Baker Act Nightmare Ends at Talmadge Law Firm
If you or your loved one has been wrongfully Baker Acted in Florida, then you must visit a professional, experienced, and dedicated Baker Act center. Finding a Baker Act center near Florida has just gotten easier because the best option is Talmadge Law Firm!
We specialize in this particular area of law and have the experience of years dealing with legal challenges. We can help you and your loved one out of involuntary commitment in no time.
