{"id":15285,"date":"2026-10-30T02:02:16","date_gmt":"2026-10-30T02:02:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/grandparent-marchman-act-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-30T02:02:24","modified_gmt":"2026-10-30T02:02:24","slug":"grandparent-marchman-act-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/grandparent-marchman-act-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"Grandparent Marchman Act Florida: Can a Grandparent File?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-15282\" alt=\"Judge reviewing involuntary commitment papers at a bench while a petitioner and attorney sit in a Florida courtroom.\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Marchman Act &amp; Guardianship | South Florida &amp; Statewide<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Worried About a Grandchild? Get Answers From a Marchman Act Attorney<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Robinson Casey focuses on Marchman Act petitions and guardianship matters for families in Miami-Dade, South Florida and across Florida. Find out where your family stands.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+15618494700\">Schedule a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Richard J. Casey III, Esq. \u00b7 Published October 29, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<h2>Can a Grandparent File a Marchman Act Petition for an Adult Grandchild?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes. A grandparent is a relative, and Florida law lets any relative file a petition for involuntary treatment services for an adult with a substance abuse impairment. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68112.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68112<\/a> sets out who may file.<\/p>\n<p>Watching a grandchild spiral is hard. You may be the one answering late-night calls, noticing unsafe choices, and wondering what comes next. Many grandparents feel they have no legal option. The Marchman Act is one option, and it starts with a petition filed in court.<\/p>\n<p>A petition doesn&#8217;t give you automatic power over your grandchild&#8217;s decisions. It asks a judge to review specific facts and decide whether the legal standard is met. This page covers who can file, how the process works, how guardianship differs, what it costs to start, and what to expect next.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your grandchild is cycling through crises and you feel you have no legal path, you don&#x27;t have to take the next step alone. Talk with us about the facts. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+15618494700\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-judge-in-a-black-robe-with-a-gold-chain-medallion-sits-at-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A judge in a black robe with a gold chain medallion sits at a courtroom table.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>The Marchman Act Explained: Purpose, Who It Covers, and Who Can Petition<\/h2>\n<p>Florida&#8217;s Marchman Act is the state law for adults and youth severely impaired by substance abuse. It allows court-ordered assessment, stabilization, and treatment. It also allows voluntary admission. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.myflfamilies.com\/crisis-services\/marchman-act\">DCF Marchman Act overview<\/a> describes the law&#8217;s purpose.<\/p>\n<p>A judge can order involuntary services only when the facts meet the statute. Florida law sets out the criteria for involuntary admission for substance abuse impairment:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A good faith reason to believe the person is substance abuse impaired.<\/li>\n<li>Loss of self-control over substance use because of that impairment.<\/li>\n<li>The person must be substance abuse impaired and have a history of not complying with substance abuse treatment; because of that impairment, the person must be unlikely to voluntarily participate in the recommended services or unable to decide for himself or herself whether services are necessary, and either judgment so impaired by substance abuse that the person is incapable of appreciating the need for care and of making a rational decision about it, or neglect or refusal that poses a real and present threat of substantial harm to the person&#8217;s well-being, together with a substantial likelihood of serious bodily harm to self or others in the near future, as evidenced by recent behavior.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A petition must name you and the person. It must state how you are related and lay out the factual reasons behind your belief. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68141.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68141<\/a> requires those facts. If the person was never assessed, or refused an evaluation, the petition must say so. Dated, specific incidents give a judge something concrete to review. General worry does not.<\/p>\n<h2>Guardianship Options When a Marchman Petition Is Not the Right Tool<\/h2>\n<p>Guardianship addresses an adult who cannot make safe decisions about medical care, money, housing, or daily life. A Marchman petition addresses a substance use crisis. Which tool fits depends on the facts.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Emergency temporary guardianship.<\/strong> After a petition to determine incapacity has been filed, and before a guardian is appointed, the court may appoint an emergency temporary guardian if it finds imminent danger that the person&#8217;s physical or mental health or safety will be seriously impaired, or that the person&#8217;s property is in danger of being wasted, misappropriated, or lost, unless immediate action is taken. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0744\/Sections\/0744.3031.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 744.3031<\/a> limits this authority to 90 days after appointment or until a guardian is appointed, whichever occurs first, with one possible 90-day extension if the emergency conditions still exist.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plenary guardianship.<\/strong> Broad authority over personal and property decisions, used when an adult needs help across most areas of life.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited guardianship.<\/strong> Authority only over the specific decisions the adult cannot make.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mental health guardianship.<\/strong> Authority tied to psychiatric conditions and treatment decisions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Involuntary commitment for addiction.<\/strong> The Marchman process itself, for concerns centered on substance use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Incapacity findings are narrow. A court must find incapacity on clear and convincing evidence. It can remove only the rights the person cannot exercise.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Process Works, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>A Marchman case moves through five stages, from consultation and records to filing, hearing, and court follow-up.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Consultation.<\/strong> Review recent incidents, hospital stays, refused care, and any existing court orders.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Records.<\/strong> Collect hospital and crisis records, a medication history, and a dated log of incidents written as plain facts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Filing.<\/strong> The petition goes to the clerk of the court in the county where the person is physically located. In <a href=\"https:\/\/flcourts-media.flcourts.gov\/content\/download\/517637\/opinion\/Opinion_16-3789.pdf\">J.P. v. J.N.<\/a>, a filing in the wrong county did not take away the circuit court&#8217;s jurisdiction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hearing.<\/strong> The court must schedule a hearing within 10 court working days unless it grants a continuance. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68151.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68151<\/a> sets that deadline. The court hears relevant evidence, including testimony from family members who know the person&#8217;s history. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.6957.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.6957<\/a> covers that testimony.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Order and follow-up.<\/strong> If the court finds the conditions proved by clear and convincing evidence, it may order involuntary treatment for up to 90 days. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.697.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.697<\/a> lets the court keep jurisdiction for further orders.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Plan to attend the hearing yourself. In <a href=\"https:\/\/flcourts-media.flcourts.gov\/content\/download\/633947\/opinion\/Opinion_19-0739.pdf\">J.C. v. State<\/a>, the petitioner carried the burden of proof, and the Fifth District reversed an order where the petitioner was absent. The Fourth District has certified conflict with that line of cases. The time between stages varies with the court&#8217;s calendar.<\/p>\n<h2>Costs and the Free First Consultation<\/h2>\n<p>The first consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no obligation to continue. Several costs can still arise, so know them early.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Service fees.<\/strong> The court may prohibit service of process fees for a petitioner found indigent.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Treatment costs.<\/strong> Before admission, a provider must disclose the full charge and the fee owed under its payment policy. Individuals contribute based on ability to pay. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.431.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.431<\/a> requires that, before a provider accepts an individual for admission, both the full charge for services and the fee charged to that individual under the provider&#8217;s fee system or payment policy be disclosed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Bring your incident log, records, medication list, and any court papers to the first meeting. Gathering records early keeps the process moving.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Families Work With Robinson Casey<\/h2>\n<p>Robinson Casey limits its practice to Marchman Act petitions and guardianship matters. The firm serves families across South Florida and statewide.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The practice covers Marchman Act petitions, guardianship, emergency temporary guardianship, plenary and limited guardianship, mental health guardianship, and involuntary commitment for addiction.<\/li>\n<li>Richard J. Casey III, Esq. is the responsible lawyer for this page.<\/li>\n<li>Support staff, including assistants and office staff, handle document organization and scheduling. Families get a clear point of contact.<\/li>\n<li>Our team helps families keep records organized and track court dates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+15618494700\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What states have the Marchman Act?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is Florida&#8217;s law. This page covers Florida only.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a grandparent file if the parents disagree?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida law lets any relative file for an adult. Family members who know the history can testify at the hearing.<\/p><\/details><p><strong>Does the clerk charge a fee to file?<\/strong><\/p>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is refusing help enough for a petition?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Refusing help alone does not show impaired judgment, so the petition needs facts that show more.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does a grandparent need a lawyer?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68151.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68151(1)<\/a>, the court determines whether the respondent is represented by an attorney or whether appointment of counsel for the respondent is appropriate. Whether you are a petitioner or the person named in a petition, you can speak with a lawyer about your situation. Contact Robinson Casey for a free, confidential initial consultation with no obligation to continue.<\/p><p>This section does not set how long treatment may last. It says appointed regional counsel represents the person until the petition is dismissed, the court order expires, the person is discharged from involuntary treatment services, or the office is otherwise discharged by the court.<\/p><\/details>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/wooden-gavel-resting-on-a-judge-s-desk-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Wooden gavel resting on a judge&#x27;s desk.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Next Step: Talk Through Your Grandchild&#8217;s Situation<\/h2>\n<p>If your grandchild is stuck in repeated hospital stays, refused care, and unsafe choices, you don&#8217;t have to map out the legal path alone. A consultation can review your facts and show which option may fit.<\/p>\n<p>Call (561) 849-4149 or <a href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">request a consultation<\/a> to talk through what you&#8217;re seeing. For more on family options, read the <a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-attorney-for-relatives-florida\/\">Marchman Act attorney for relatives guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Results in prior cases do not guarantee similar outcomes in future matters. Please consult a licensed Florida attorney for advice specific to your situation. Robinson Casey, 6400 Congress Ave #2050, Boca Raton, FL 33487.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Matters We Handle<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marchman Act Petitions<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Guidance on petitions under Florida&#x27;s Marchman Act for a family member struggling with substance use.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Involuntary Commitment for Addiction<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Help understanding the process and what to expect when a loved one needs court-ordered treatment.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Emergency Temporary Guardianship<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Support when a person needs immediate protection and a court-appointed guardian is necessary without delay.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plenary and Limited Guardianship<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Guidance on guardianship options, from broad authority to narrower arrangements tailored to the person&#x27;s needs.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mental Health Guardianship<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Assistance for families seeking court oversight of decisions for a relative with a mental health condition.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Why Families Start With Robinson Casey<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free First Consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Direct Access<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call (561) 849-4149 to speak with our team about your family&#x27;s situation.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focused Practice<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Robinson Casey focuses on Marchman Act and guardianship matters, the areas where our lawyers concentrate their work.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">South Florida and Statewide<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We serve families in Miami-Dade and South Florida, and across the state.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Don&#x27;t Wait Until the Crisis Peaks<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Family members often reach out when a situation is already urgent. Getting clear information early can help you understand your options and prepare for what comes next.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+15618494700\">Call (561) 849-4149<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Call (561) 849-4149<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk With Richard J. Casey III, Esq. About Your Family&#x27;s Situation<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+15618494700\">Schedule Your Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Schedule Your Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/\">Marchman Act Attorney | Florida Involuntary Commitment for Addiction<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/help-alcoholic-refuses-treatment\/\">Helping an Alcoholic Who Doesn&#x27;t Want Help<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-long-can-you-be-held-on-the-marchman-act-in-florida\/\">How long can you be held on the Marchman Act in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-long-does-a-marchman-act-last\/\">How long does a Marchman Act last?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-marchman-act-in-florida\/\">How long does it take to get a Marchman Act in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-long-is-a-baker-act-hold\/\">How Long Is a Baker Act Hold<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A grandparent can file a Marchman Act petition for an adult grandchild in Florida. Learn who may file, the steps, guardianship options, and costs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":14,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/grandparent-marchman-act-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/es\/abogado-ley-marchman\/abuelos-ley-marchman-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/grandparent-marchman-act-florida\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Marchman Act\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marchman_Act\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Involuntary commitment\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Involuntary_commitment\"}], \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Legal guardian\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Legal_guardian\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Substance use disorder\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Substance_use_disorder\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Addiction\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Addiction\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Drug rehabilitation\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Drug_rehabilitation\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Capacity (law)\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Capacity_(law)\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Richard J. 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This page covers Florida only.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a grandparent file if the parents disagree?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Florida law lets any relative file for an adult. Family members who know the history can testify at the hearing.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is refusing help enough for a petition?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. Refusing help alone does not show impaired judgment, so the petition needs facts that show more.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does a grandparent need a lawyer?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Under Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68151(1), the court determines whether the respondent is represented by an attorney or whether appointment of counsel for the respondent is appropriate. Whether you are a petitioner or the person named in a petition, you can speak with a lawyer about your situation. Contact Robinson Casey for a free, confidential initial consultation with no obligation to continue.This section does not set how long treatment may last. It says appointed regional counsel represents the person until the petition is dismissed, the court order expires, the person is discharged from involuntary treatment services, or the office is otherwise discharged by the court.\"}}], \"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#grandparent-marchman-act-faq\", \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"image\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-involuntary-commitment-papers-at-a-bench-whi-photo.jpg\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#grandparent-marchman-act-service\", \"name\": \"Marchman Act Petition Guidance for Grandparents in Florida\", \"@type\": \"Service\", \"about\": [\"Marchman Act\", \"involuntary treatment for substance use in Florida\", \"guardianship in Florida\"], \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"PeopleAudience\", \"audienceType\": \"Grandparents and other adult relatives of adults with substance use or impairment in Florida\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Robinson Casey\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/\"}, \"areaServed\": {\"name\": \"Florida\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}, \"description\": \"Informational service page explaining whether a grandparent may file a Marchman Act petition in Florida for an adult grandchild, how the Marchman Act differs from guardianship, the general steps of the process, cost and consultation basics, and common questions from families.\", \"serviceType\": \"Marchman Act petition and guardianship guidance\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Marchman Act Attorney\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Grandparent Marchman Act Florida: Can a Grandparent File?\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/grandparent-marchman-act-florida\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"A grandparent can file a Marchman Act petition for an adult grandchild in Florida. 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