What is the Baker Act in Florida?
The Baker of Florida Law enables one to involuntarily examine and hold him under temporary detention for individuals for the sake of their own or anybody being a danger to themself or others. By the naming tradition, the Bill was named after Maxine Baker, a former state representative. So, it gives medical professionals, law enforcement officers, and judges authority to take immediate action when individuals require an evaluation and treatment in a mental health hospital.
How Baker Acted Works?
Baker Acting someone makes him a person who has become involuntarily committed under the provisions of the Baker Act ostensibly for mental health examination and treatment. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
1. Initiation
A person may be initiated to the Baker Act by law enforcement, mental health professionals, or private family members. In case of suspicion, there will be a petition for examination under the Baker Act.
2. Evaluation
Immediately after the petition, the petitioner may be arrested and transferred as soon as possible to the receiving center. At a mental health facility, the clinicians will examine the person’s current state of mental health issues. In addition, they will ultimately decide whether or not one meets the criteria for this involuntary examination.
3. Examination Period
Enlisted under the Baker Act, people can be hospitalized for up to three days to perform observational assessments and to give medical help. In this phase, mental health professionals will conduct a thorough evaluation. Similarly, they will determine the objective’s mental health needs and define therapeutic procedures.
How to Baker Act Someone in Florida?
Initiating a Baker Act in Florida involves several steps:
- Observation:The individual’s behavior must meet the criteria for involuntary examination under the Baker Act. For instance, if they pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness. Additionally, observations and documentation of the individual’s behavior will be observed. Furthermore, this will support the petition for involuntary examination.
- Petition Filing: Filing a petition for involuntary examination is necessary with the appropriate court or mental health facility. Similarly, the petition should include detailed information about the individual’s behavior and mental health status. In addition, they will also consider any relevant medical history or prior mental health treatment.
- Evaluation by Mental Health Professionals:After the filing of the petition, the individual will go under evaluation by mental health professionals. Similarly, this is to determine whether they meet the criteria for involuntary examination under the Baker Act. Therefore, if so, they may be involuntarily detained for up to 72 hours for evaluation and treatment.
Choose Talmadge Law Firm for Immediate Assistance
You need your own experienced lawyer to help. At Talmadge Law Firm, focusing on Baker Act issues. Give us a call today!
