LATEST ARTICLE

  • Brass balance scale, navy leather portfolio, reading glasses, and papers on a dark wood desk in a sunlit law office
    September 2nd, 2026

    Florida's guardianship rules changed on July 1, 2026 under CS/HB 1121, now Chapter 2026-74. The act gives state regulators subpoena power over professional guardians, adds fines to the penalty list, and revises continuing education, while a separate guardianship bill on visitation and notice died in committee.

  • STIMGA on wooden block

    Substance use disorder affects millions of individuals and families, yet stigma remains a major barrier to recovery. Many still view addiction as a personal failing rather than a medical condition, making it difficult for those struggling to seek help without fear of judgment. This misconception prevents access to treatment, reinforces shame, and deepens the cycle

    April 7th, 2025
  • woman stressed over paperwork

    Timing can be critical when seeking help for a loved one with substance use disorder, but the legal process isn’t always predictable. Families often wonder how long it will take for their petition to be reviewed, when court hearings will be scheduled, and how soon treatment can begin. The reality is that the Marchman Act

    March 31st, 2025
  • person touching puzzled mans shoulder

    Watching a loved one struggle with substance use disorder can be heartbreaking, especially when they refuse help or are unable to make decisions for their well-being. In some cases, the situation may reach a point where intervention is no longer optional.  The Marchman Act provides a legal pathway for families and friends to help individuals

    March 24th, 2025
  • man hugging woman

    Understanding the Court’s Role in a Marchman Act Petition Filing a Marchman Act petition is a significant step in ensuring that a loved one struggling with substance use disorder gets the help they need. But what happens next? Once the petition is submitted, the legal process begins, and many families are left wondering what to

    March 17th, 2025
  • Psychotherapist working with a substance use disorder man under the Marchman Act

    When you have a potential Marchman Act case, you must understand the role that mental health plays. The Marchman Act is a legal process in the United States that allows for the involuntary assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with substance abuse. However, mental health often intersects with substance abuse, making it necessary to consider

    February 24th, 2025
  • Will There Be a Public Record of My Child's Substance Abuse Treatment if I File a Marchman Act Case

    The Marchman Act is a legal tool used in the state of Florida to help individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. While it has been beneficial in many cases, it is not perfect legislation. When considering taking action under this law, it is important to examine its strengths and weaknesses. On one hand, the

    February 19th, 2025
  • Marchman Act law

    If you have a loved one who is struggling with substance abuse, it can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming situation. You may feel helpless and unsure of what steps to take to ensure their safety and well-being. Fortunately, a legal tool called the Marchman Act can provide much-needed support in these difficult circumstances. The

    February 17th, 2025
  • Step-by-Step: How to File for a Marchman Act Petition

    Florida’s Marchman Act allows you to petition for someone to receive an evaluation and any necessary treatment, generally for drug or alcohol addiction. This act has been in effect for more than three decades, and it is more necessary than ever. Countless families in Florida are negatively affected by addiction, and many are at their

    February 14th, 2025
  • Can the Marchman Act Be Used to Help Minors

    Yes, in certain cases the Marchman Act can be used to help minors. If a parent, guardian, or qualified medical or mental health practitioner petitions the court successfully, a minor may be evaluated and treated—even if they would not have pursued help on their own. The Marchman Act is arguably the most effective and beneficial

    February 12th, 2025