{"id":249,"date":"2026-09-18T06:49:26","date_gmt":"2026-09-18T06:49:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/can-you-force-someone-into-rehab\/"},"modified":"2026-10-21T13:47:15","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T13:47:15","slug":"can-you-force-someone-into-rehab","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/can-you-force-someone-into-rehab\/","title":{"rendered":"Force Someone Into Rehab in Florida | Marchman Act Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
<\/span>\"Judge's
\n

Marchman Act Attorney<\/p>

Force Someone Into Rehab in Florida<\/h1>

Legal guidance for involuntary commitment when addiction threatens a loved one. Robinson & Casey handles Marchman Act petitions statewide.<\/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 18, 2026<\/p>\n\n

\n\n

Marchman Act Attorney: Force Someone Into Rehab in Florida<\/h2>\n

Yes, Florida law allows you to petition a court to order involuntary addiction treatment for a loved one\u2014even without their consent. This is possible under Florida Statute \u00a7 397.675<\/a>, known as the Marchman Act. It’s a civil (not criminal) legal process designed to protect people whose substance use disorder poses serious danger to themselves or others. Robinson & Casey handles Marchman Act petitions across South Florida and statewide, guiding families through each step of the court process.<\/p>\n\n

\"Wooden<\/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

Yes, You Can Force Someone Into Rehab in Florida\u2014Here’s How<\/h2>\n

Florida law permits involuntary commitment for substance use disorder under the Marchman Act. This is a civil legal process, not a criminal one. It protects individuals whose addiction impairs judgment and puts them or others at risk. <\/p>\n

The process requires a court petition, evidence presented to a judge, and a formal court order\u2014not just a family decision alone. Robinson & Casey prepares and files these petitions regularly, helping families navigate the court system and achieve the intervention their loved one needs.<\/p>\n

What Is the Marchman Act and Who Can Use It<\/h2>\n

The Marchman Act is Florida’s civil commitment statute for substance use disorders. It allows family members, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and other authorized parties to petition a court for involuntary assessment and treatment. You do not need the person’s consent to file a petition. The law recognizes that severe addiction can impair judgment, making voluntary treatment unlikely or impossible.<\/p>\n

Marchman Act petitions are separate from criminal proceedings and guardianship matters. A Marchman Act commitment is temporary and addiction-specific. Guardianship is a broader, longer-term legal arrangement that may be pursued separately if needed. Understanding this distinction helps you choose the right legal tool for your situation.<\/p>\n

Who Can File a Marchman Act Petition<\/h2>\n

You don’t have to be a family member to file. The following people have standing (legal authority) to petition:<\/p>\n