{"id":2664,"date":"2026-09-30T09:43:20","date_gmt":"2026-09-30T09:43:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-timeline-duration\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T17:44:10","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T17:44:10","slug":"involuntary-commitment-addiction-timeline-duration","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-timeline-duration\/","title":{"rendered":"Involuntary Commitment for Addiction in Florida: Timeline"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-secondary-background-color has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Judge reviewing Marchman Act commitment petition documents in Florida courtroom during hearing.\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/judge-reviewing-marchman-act-commitment-petition-documents-i-photo-2.jpg\"\/><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\">Involuntary Commitment for Addiction<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Understanding the Timeline for Addiction Commitment in Florida<\/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);\">From petition to court order to treatment\u2014here&#x27;s how the process unfolds and what families need to know.<\/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:+15618494149\">Call (561) 849-4149 to discuss your situation<\/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\/\">Call (561) 849-4149 to discuss your situation<\/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 September 30, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Involuntary Commitment for Addiction in Florida: Timeline &amp; Duration<\/h2>\n<p>Involuntary commitment for addiction in Florida follows a structured legal timeline. An emergency hold lasts up to 5 days. A court hearing must occur within 5 days after that. The court then orders treatment lasting 5 to 60 days or longer, depending on the judge&#8217;s findings and whether the commitment is extended.<\/p>\n<p>Understanding each stage helps you navigate this process for a family member.<\/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 you&#x27;re facing a situation where someone you care about needs involuntary treatment for addiction and you&#x27;re unsure about the legal timeline and process, families in that position reach out to us regularly\u2014let&#x27;s walk through it together. 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:+15618494149\">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\/09\/gavel-on-courtroom-desk-symbolizing-legal-proceedings-and-ju-photo-4.jpg\" alt=\"Gavel on courtroom desk symbolizing legal proceedings and justice system.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What Is Involuntary Commitment for Addiction in Florida?<\/h2>\n<p>Involuntary commitment for addiction is a court-ordered process. It allows a person with substance use disorder to be held in treatment against their will. This happens when they pose danger to themselves or others, or when they cannot make safe decisions about their own care.<\/p>\n<p>The legal foundation is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;Search_String=&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.675.html\">Marchman Act<\/a>, codified in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;Search_String=&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.675.html\">Florida Statutes Chapter 397<\/a>. This statute has been in place since 1993.<\/p>\n<p>Involuntary commitment differs from voluntary treatment. It also differs from the Baker Act, which handles mental health crises. A person with both addiction and mental health issues may be held under both laws simultaneously.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about how the Marchman Act works and the differences between the Marchman Act and Baker Act.<\/p>\n<h2>Initial Petition and Emergency Hold: The First 5 Days<\/h2>\n<p>The process begins when a family member, physician, or other authorized person files a petition with the court. An emergency ex parte order can be issued the same day or within 24 hours.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What happens immediately:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Law enforcement takes the person into custody.<\/li>\n<li>They are transported to a designated treatment facility or hospital.<\/li>\n<li>The facility performs a medical evaluation and psychiatric screening.<\/li>\n<li>The person is held in a secure setting and cannot leave without authorization.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This emergency hold lasts <strong>up to 5 days<\/strong>. During this time, the facility stabilizes the person and prepares a treatment plan. The person has the right to know why they&#8217;re being held and to be informed of the upcoming hearing.<\/p>\n<h2>The Hearing: Days 5\u201310<\/h2>\n<p>The full hearing on the Marchman Act petition must occur <strong>within 5 days of the emergency order<\/strong>. This typically happens between day 5 and day 10.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who attends:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The petitioner (family member or physician who filed)<\/li>\n<li>The respondent (the person in custody)<\/li>\n<li>The judge<\/li>\n<li>Often a court-appointed attorney to represent the person&#8217;s interests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>What the judge decides:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The judge reviews evidence to determine whether clear and convincing evidence shows that the person:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Is abusing or dependent on drugs or alcohol, AND<\/li>\n<li>Either poses imminent danger to themselves or others, OR lacks capacity to consent to treatment<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&#8220;Imminent danger&#8221; means a substantial likelihood of serious bodily harm in the near future\u2014not just general risk, but a specific, immediate threat.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Possible outcomes:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The court orders involuntary commitment for a specified period (typically 5 to 60 days).<\/li>\n<li>The court dismisses the petition if grounds are not met.<\/li>\n<li>The person agrees to voluntary treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The hearing usually lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on evidence presented and whether the person contests the petition.<\/p>\n<h2>How Long Does Involuntary Commitment Last?<\/h2>\n<p>The duration depends on the court&#8217;s findings and the treatment plan.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Initial commitment order:<\/strong> Typically 5 days to 60 days. The court decides based on substance use severity, prior treatment failures, the person&#8217;s medical and psychiatric status, and the facility&#8217;s recommendation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Extension:<\/strong> If the treatment team believes the person still meets legal grounds for commitment, they can petition the court for an extension\u2014often for another 60 days or more. The court must hold another hearing and find again that grounds exist.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Maximum duration:<\/strong> There is no absolute cap in the statute. Commitment can continue as long as legal grounds exist and are renewed through the court process. However, the burden is always on the petitioner and treatment team to prove at each renewal that commitment remains necessary.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Early discharge:<\/strong> The person is not locked in for the full period. If the treatment team determines the person no longer poses imminent danger, the team can petition the court for early discharge. The person can also petition for a termination hearing and argue that grounds no longer exist.<\/p>\n<h2>What Happens During the Commitment Period?<\/h2>\n<p>Once the court orders commitment, treatment begins immediately. The person enters a residential treatment program at a licensed addiction treatment facility, hospital addiction unit, or focused recovery center.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Treatment typically includes:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Medical detoxification (if needed)<\/li>\n<li>Individual counseling and therapy<\/li>\n<li>Group therapy sessions<\/li>\n<li>Psychiatric evaluation and medication management<\/li>\n<li>Educational programming on addiction and recovery<\/li>\n<li>Peer support and community building<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Duration of the treatment program:<\/strong> Most residential addiction treatment programs last 28 to 90 days, depending on individual needs and the facility&#8217;s model. This is separate from the court&#8217;s commitment order.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Court check-ins:<\/strong> Some courts require status updates every 30 to 60 days. The treatment team reports on progress, compliance, and whether grounds for commitment still exist.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Discharge planning:<\/strong> Before the commitment order expires, the facility begins planning for discharge. This includes arranging outpatient follow-up care, support groups, aftercare counseling, and medication management.<\/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<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:+15618494149\">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>How Long Can a Treatment Facility Hold Someone Involuntarily?<\/h2>\n<p>A treatment facility can hold a person <strong>only as long as the court&#8217;s commitment order permits<\/strong>. The facility has no independent authority to extend the hold.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If the person improves:<\/strong> The treatment team can petition the court for early discharge before the order expires. If the judge agrees that grounds no longer exist, the person is released.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If the person deteriorates or refuses treatment:<\/strong> The facility cannot simply release them. Instead, the treatment team can petition the court for an extension before the current order expires.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If the person tries to leave without authorization:<\/strong> The facility can contact law enforcement, and the person can be returned to custody under the commitment order.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Violation of the order:<\/strong> If a facility releases a person before the court order expires, the facility may face legal liability.<\/p>\n<h2>Marchman Act vs. Baker Act: How Timelines Differ<\/h2>\n<p>Florida has two primary involuntary hold laws serving different purposes.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Aspect<\/th>\n<th>Marchman Act<\/th>\n<th>Baker Act<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Purpose<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Substance use disorder<\/td>\n<td>Mental health crisis<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Emergency hold<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Up to 5 days<\/td>\n<td>Up to 72 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Hearing deadline<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Within 5 days of emergency order<\/td>\n<td>Within 72 hours (or as ordered)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Commitment duration<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>5 days to 60+ days<\/td>\n<td>Typically 72 hours, then voluntary or extended<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Initiated by<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Family, physician, state attorney<\/td>\n<td>Law enforcement, medical professional, or facility staff<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n<p><strong>Overlap:<\/strong> A person can be held under both laws if they have co-occurring substance use and mental health issues.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key point:<\/strong> If you&#8217;ve heard about a &#8220;5150 hold,&#8221; that&#8217;s California law. Florida does not use that term. Florida&#8217;s equivalent for mental health is the Baker Act; for addiction, it&#8217;s the Marchman Act.<\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Requirements for Involuntary Commitment in Florida?<\/h2>\n<p>To obtain an involuntary commitment order under the Marchman Act, the petitioner must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the person:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Is substance-dependent or abusing drugs or alcohol.<\/strong> This is shown through medical records, prior treatment attempts, testimony from family or medical professionals, or documented incidents of use.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Poses imminent danger to self or others, OR lacks capacity to consent to treatment.<\/strong> &#8220;Imminent danger&#8221; means a substantial likelihood of serious bodily harm in the near future. Examples include recent overdoses, violent behavior while intoxicated, or suicide attempts related to substance use.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Cannot be adequately served by voluntary treatment.<\/strong> The petitioner must show the person has refused or failed voluntary treatment in the past.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Who can file:<\/strong> A family member, a licensed physician, a mental health professional, or the state attorney can file a Marchman Act petition.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Burden of proof:<\/strong> The standard is clear and convincing evidence\u2014higher than &#8220;more likely than not,&#8221; but lower than &#8220;beyond a reasonable doubt.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Common Questions About Timeline and Duration<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Q: Can someone be released before their commitment order expires?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. If the treatment team determines the person no longer meets legal grounds, they can petition the court for early discharge. The judge must agree.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Q: What if the person refuses treatment during commitment?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Refusal does not automatically end the commitment. The facility continues to provide care. If refusal is so severe that treatment becomes impossible, the treatment team may petition the court to terminate the commitment or transfer the person.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Q: Can a Marchman Act commitment be appealed or challenged?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. The person can petition the court for a hearing to terminate the commitment. They must argue that grounds no longer exist or were not met initially.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Q: Is there a waiting list to enter a treatment facility?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It varies by facility and region. In South Florida, some facilities have waiting lists, especially for focused care. Delays in admission can extend the overall timeline.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Q: What happens after the commitment order expires?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An aftercare plan is in place before discharge. The person may continue outpatient treatment voluntarily, or the court may order continued outpatient treatment as a condition of release. Support groups, counseling, and medication management are typically part of the plan.<\/p><\/details><h2>Robinson &amp; Casey Handles Marchman Act Petitions<\/h2>\n<p>Robinson &amp; Casey focuses exclusively on Marchman Act petitions and guardianship matters. This narrow focus means our attorneys understand every stage of the involuntary commitment process\u2014from the emergency petition through the hearing to extensions and discharge planning.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What this means for you:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>We know the timing requirements and how to meet them without delays.<\/li>\n<li>We work with treatment facilities across South Florida and statewide.<\/li>\n<li>We can represent you at the hearing and present evidence clearly to the judge.<\/li>\n<li>We understand how to handle extensions if treatment needs to continue.<\/li>\n<li>We handle these cases repeatedly and know what judges in your county expect.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Because we handle Marchman Act petitions regularly, we can walk you through each phase so you&#8217;re not navigating this alone.<\/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 you&#x27;re facing a situation where someone you care about needs involuntary treatment for addiction and you&#x27;re unsure about the legal timeline and process, families in that position reach out to us regularly\u2014let&#x27;s walk through it together. 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:+15618494149\">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\/09\/wooden-gavel-on-round-surface-with-folders-on-courtroom-tabl-photo-59.jpg\" alt=\"Wooden gavel on round surface with folders on courtroom table, overhead view.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Next Steps: What to Do Now<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re considering involuntary commitment for a family member or friend, here&#8217;s what to do:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Gather documentation:<\/strong> Collect evidence of substance use, prior treatment attempts, medical evaluations, and incidents where the person posed danger (overdoses, accidents, threats).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Consult an attorney early:<\/strong> The timeline is tight\u2014you have 5 days from the emergency order to the hearing. An attorney can help you file the petition correctly and prepare your case immediately.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Identify a treatment facility:<\/strong> Research treatment options in advance. Once the emergency order is issued, admission should happen quickly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Prepare for the hearing:<\/strong> Your attorney will help you organize your evidence and present it persuasively to the judge.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If you&#8217;re facing the decision of whether to pursue involuntary commitment, Robinson &amp; Casey is here to guide you through the process. We understand the urgency and the emotional weight of these decisions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Call us at <a href=\"tel:+15618494149\">(561) 849-4149<\/a> to schedule a consultation.<\/strong> If someone in your family is struggling with addiction and you&#8217;re unsure whether involuntary commitment is the right step, we&#8217;re ready to help.<\/p>\n\n\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.<\/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\">Key Stages in the Commitment Timeline<\/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\"><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\">Petition Filed<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A family member, physician, or other authorized person files a petition with the court alleging grounds for involuntary commitment due to substance use disorder.<\/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\">Initial Hearing<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The court schedules a hearing, typically within days. The person has the right to be present, to be represented, and to contest the petition.<\/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\">Court Order Issued<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the judge finds legal grounds, an order for involuntary commitment is entered. The duration and type of commitment depends on the specific order.<\/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\">Admission to Treatment Facility<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The person is admitted to a licensed treatment facility. The facility provides care and works toward discharge when legal grounds no longer apply.<\/p><\/div><\/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\">Early Release Is Possible<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the treatment team determines the person no longer meets legal grounds for commitment, they can petition the court for early discharge. The judge must approve. Refusal of treatment does not automatically end the commitment\u2014the facility continues to provide care.<\/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:+15618494149\">Questions about the process? Contact Robinson &amp; Casey<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Questions about the process? Contact Robinson &amp; Casey<\/a><\/div><\/div>\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\">How Robinson &amp; Casey Helps Families Navigate Commitment<\/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--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Petition Preparation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We prepare and file the involuntary commitment petition with the court, ensuring all required documentation and legal grounds are properly presented.<\/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--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Court Representation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We represent your family at the initial hearing and any subsequent proceedings, advocating for the commitment order when grounds are met.<\/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--clock\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Timeline Guidance<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain what to expect at each stage, from filing through admission, so your family understands the process and can plan accordingly.<\/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--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ongoing Support<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We answer questions about the commitment order, discharge procedures, and next steps as the treatment process unfolds.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\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\">Ready to Take the Next Step?<\/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:+15618494149\">Schedule a consultation with Robinson &amp; Casey. Call (561) 849-4149 today.<\/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 consultation with Robinson &amp; Casey. Call (561) 849-4149 today.<\/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\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/after-involuntary-commitment-addiction\/\">Involuntary Commitment for Addiction in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-miami-dade\/\">Involuntary Commitment For Addiction in Miami Dade<\/a><\/li><li>Involuntary Commitment For Addiction in South Florida<\/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\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-wait-for-rock-bottom\/\">Should You Wait for Your Loved One to Hit Rock Bottom? Florida Law on Addiction Intervention<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-which-county-court-marchman-act-petition\/\">Which County Court Hears a Marchman Act Petition in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-alcohol-addiction\/\">Involuntary Commitment for Alcohol Addiction in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-drug-addiction-families\/\">Involuntary Commitment for Drug Addiction: What Families Need to Know<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-florida\/\">Involuntary Commitment Florida<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understand how long involuntary commitment for addiction lasts in Florida under the Marchman Act\u2014from emergency hold through hearing to treatment duration.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":212,"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\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-timeline-duration\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/es\/internamiento-involuntario-adiccion\/internamiento-involuntario-adiccion-duracion\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/involuntary-commitment-addiction-timeline-duration\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Involuntary Commitment (Marchman Act) Petitions\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Robinson Casey\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"description\": \"Legal guidance and representation for Marchman Act petitions and involuntary commitment for addiction in Florida, including timeline navigation and court hearings.\", \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Richard J. Casey III, Esq.\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/about-us\/#awb-oc__3614\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/about\/section\/profile\/?num=1012146\", \"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/robinsoncaseypllc\", \"https:\/\/youtube.com\/@robinsoncasey\", \"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/robinson_caseypllc\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/robinsoncasey\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Robinson Casey\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Craig Robinson, Esq., MSW\", \"jobTitle\": \"Founding Partner\/CRO\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/about\/section\/profile\/?num=1023214\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Q: Can someone be released before their commitment order expires?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. If the treatment team determines the person no longer meets legal grounds, they can petition the court for early discharge. The judge must agree.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Q: What if the person refuses treatment during commitment?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Refusal does not automatically end the commitment. The facility continues to provide care. If refusal is so severe that treatment becomes impossible, the treatment team may petition the court to terminate the commitment or transfer the person.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Q: Can a Marchman Act commitment be appealed or challenged?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. The person can petition the court for a hearing to terminate the commitment. 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