{"id":2081,"date":"2026-09-25T05:25:18","date_gmt":"2026-09-25T05:25:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/how-to-commit-someone-to-rehab-in-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-21T14:04:41","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T14:04:41","slug":"how-to-commit-someone-to-rehab-in-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/how-to-commit-someone-to-rehab-in-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Commit Someone to Rehab in Florida: Marchman Act"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
<\/span>\"Judge
\n

Marchman Act | Florida<\/p>

How to Commit Someone to Rehab in Florida: Marchman Act<\/h1>

When addiction threatens a loved one's life, Florida law provides a legal pathway to involuntary commitment and treatment. Robinson & Casey guides families through the Marchman Act petition process.<\/p>

Schedule a Consultation<\/a><\/div>
Schedule a Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

By Richard J. Casey III, Esq. \u00b7 Published September 25, 2026<\/p>\n\n

\n\n

How to Commit Someone to Rehab in Florida: The Marchman Act Process<\/h2>\n

When a loved one refuses addiction treatment despite clear danger, you may have a legal pathway to court-ordered care. Florida’s Marchman Act is a civil statute allowing family members and healthcare providers to petition for involuntary assessment and treatment. This guide explains what involuntary commitment means, when it may be necessary, how the Marchman Act process works step-by-step, realistic timelines, and how Robinson & Casey helps families navigate it.<\/p>\n\n

\"Gavel<\/figure>\n\n
\n

Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3>

Talk it through with our team — the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p>

Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div>
Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

What It Means to Commit Someone to Rehab in Florida<\/h2>\n

Involuntary commitment for addiction is a court-ordered process. You petition for mandatory treatment when someone refuses help despite substance abuse disorder evidence. The legal foundation is Florida Statute \u00a7 397.675<\/a>, which enables this intervention.<\/p>\n

Unlike criminal prosecution, involuntary commitment under the Marchman Act is a civil<\/em> proceeding. It does not result in a criminal conviction or record. Instead, the court determines whether the respondent has a substance abuse disorder and poses a threat to their health, safety, welfare, or others.<\/p>\n

The Marchman Act applies to alcohol and drug addiction. It is distinct from Florida’s Baker Act, which addresses involuntary psychiatric commitment for mental health crises. Both statutes may apply if your loved one faces addiction and mental health emergency.<\/p>\n

Who can petition:<\/strong>\n– Immediate family members\n– Healthcare providers\n– Law enforcement officers\n– Other individuals with legal standing<\/p>\n

A successful petition results in court-supervised treatment, not punishment. The goal is to address addiction and stabilize the person’s health and safety.<\/p>\n

When Involuntary Commitment May Be Necessary<\/h2>\n

Families typically consider involuntary commitment when:<\/p>\n