{"id":3685,"date":"2026-10-05T00:24:03","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T00:24:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-to-get-someone-marchman-acted-in-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T16:30:13","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T16:30:13","slug":"how-to-get-someone-marchman-acted-in-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/how-to-get-someone-marchman-acted-in-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Someone Marchman Acted in Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Marchman Act in Florida<\/p>

How to Get Someone Marchman Acted in Florida<\/h1>

A guide to involuntary commitment for substance abuse\u2014and how Robinson & Casey can help your family navigate the process.<\/p>

Schedule a consultation: (561) 849-4149<\/a><\/div>
Schedule a consultation: (561) 849-4149<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

By Richard J. Casey III, Esq. \u00b7 Published October 05, 2026<\/p>\n\n

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How to Get Someone Marchman Acted in Florida: The Petition Process Explained<\/h2>\n

If someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse and refuses help, you may be wondering whether you can force them into treatment. In Florida, the answer is yes\u2014through a legal process called a Marchman Act petition. This guide walks you through what the process involves, who can file, what the courts require, and what happens after an order is issued.<\/p>\n\n

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If you're facing a loved one's substance abuse and wondering whether a Marchman Act petition makes sense for your situation, reach out to discuss your options. 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\n
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What Is the Marchman Act and Why It Matters<\/h2>\n

The Marchman Act is Florida’s civil statute (Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.675)<\/a> that allows family members and other concerned parties to petition a court for involuntary assessment and treatment when someone’s addiction poses a danger to themselves or others. It’s designed for situations where a person has lost control over their substance use and refuses voluntary help.<\/p>\n

The Marchman Act is a civil (not criminal) process. It focuses on treatment and safety, not punishment. You’re not trying to send someone to jail\u2014you’re seeking a court order that requires them to be evaluated and, if necessary, treated for addiction. This distinction matters because the goal is recovery and harm reduction, not legal consequences.<\/p>\n

The statute applies when active substance abuse exists<\/a>, the person has refused voluntary treatment despite the severity of their addiction, and their condition poses imminent danger to their physical health, mental health, safety, or the safety of others.<\/p>\n

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

You don’t have to be a lawyer to start a Marchman Act petition. Florida law allows several categories of people to file:<\/p>\n