Page "Involuntary commitment" Paragraph 76

An example of involuntary commitment procedures is the Baker Act used in Florida.

Under this law, a person may be committed only if they present a danger to themselves or others.

A police officer, doctor, nurse or licensed mental health professional may initiate an involuntary examination that lasts for up to 72 hours.

Within this time, two psychiatrists may ask a judge to extend the commitment and order involuntary treatment.

The Baker Act also requires that all commitment orders be reviewed every six months in addition to ensuring certain rights to the committed including the right to contact outsiders.

Also, a person under an involuntary commitment order has a right to counsel and a right to have the state provide a public defender if they cannot afford a lawyer.

While the Florida law allows police to initiate the examination, it is the recommendations of two psychiatrists that guide the decisions of the court.