{"id":3711,"date":"2026-10-05T02:32:04","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T02:32:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/who-can-file-marchman-act-petition-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-21T20:10:31","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T20:10:31","slug":"who-can-file-marchman-act-petition-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/who-can-file-marchman-act-petition-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"Who Can File a Marchman Act Petition in Florida"},"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 involuntary commitment petition documents in courtroom with petitioner and counsel present.\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviewing-marchman-act-involuntary-commitment-petition-photo-12.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\">Marchman Act Petitions<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Who Can File a Marchman Act Petition 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);\">Understanding who has the legal standing to petition for involuntary treatment under Florida law.<\/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 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 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 05, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>The Marchman Act allows specific family members, professionals, and officials to file a court petition for involuntary assessment and treatment when a loved one is struggling with substance abuse. Not everyone can file\u2014Florida law limits who has legal standing to do so, and understanding who qualifies is the first step if you&#8217;re considering this option for someone you care about.<\/p>\n<h2>Baker Act vs. Marchman Act: Understanding the Difference<\/h2>\n<p>The Baker Act and Marchman Act are often confused because both are Florida laws governing involuntary commitment, but they address different crises. The Baker Act applies to mental health emergencies and provides a process for involuntary examination. The Marchman Act applies to substance use disorders and provides a process for involuntary assessment and potential court-ordered treatment.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re searching for how long a Baker Act lasts but your concern is actually addiction or substance abuse, the Marchman Act is likely the law that applies. The timeline and process are different, and so are the people who can file. Understanding which law fits your situation is essential before moving forward.<\/p>\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\/judge-reviewing-legal-documents-at-courtroom-desk-with-gavel-photo-3.jpg\" alt=\"Judge reviewing legal documents at courtroom desk with gavel.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\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>Who Can File a Marchman Act Petition in Florida?<\/h2>\n<p>Florida law specifies exactly who has standing to file a Marchman Act petition. You must be one of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>A parent<\/strong> (if the person is a minor)<\/li>\n<li><strong>A spouse<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>An adult child<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>An adult sibling<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>A physician or licensed mental health professional<\/strong> who has examined the person<\/li>\n<li><strong>A state attorney<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>A law enforcement officer<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>A licensed substance abuse treatment provider<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You do not need to be a lawyer to file a petition. However, you must have reasonable grounds to believe the person is abusing or dependent on a controlled substance and poses a threat to their own health, safety, or welfare\u2014or to the welfare of others.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Reasonable grounds&#8221; means you have facts supporting your belief, not just suspicion. Examples include: the person has admitted substance use, you&#8217;ve witnessed intoxication or drug paraphernalia, a medical professional has documented substance use, or the person has been arrested for drug-related offenses. The court will examine whether your grounds are genuine and factual.<\/p>\n<h2>How Long Does a Marchman Act Hold Last?<\/h2>\n<p>This is where the Marchman Act differs sharply from the Baker Act. An initial involuntary assessment under the Marchman Act lasts up to 5 days\u2014not 72 hours. During this time, a licensed treatment provider evaluates whether the person meets criteria for involuntary treatment.<\/p>\n<p>If the provider determines that involuntary treatment is necessary, the case proceeds to a court hearing. At that hearing, a judge may order involuntary inpatient or outpatient treatment for up to 60 days. That 60-day order can be renewed by the court if the treatment provider and evidence support continued involuntary treatment.<\/p>\n<p>The total duration depends on the person&#8217;s condition, the treatment provider&#8217;s clinical recommendation, and the judge&#8217;s order\u2014not a fixed timeline. Someone may be discharged before 60 days if they improve, or the treatment may be extended beyond 60 days if the court finds it necessary.<\/p>\n<h2>How Many Times Can Someone Be Marchman Acted in Florida?<\/h2>\n<p>Florida law does not cap the number of Marchman Act petitions. A person can be petitioned multiple times if each petition is based on current, reasonable grounds that they meet the statutory criteria. Each petition stands alone and must meet the legal standard independently.<\/p>\n<p>However, repeated petitions should not be filed frivolously. The court will examine whether reasonable grounds exist each time, and filing without factual basis could expose the petitioner to legal challenge.<\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Costs of a Marchman Act Petition?<\/h2>\n<p>Filing fees and court costs vary by county in Florida. The petitioner is typically responsible for these costs upfront. Court fees generally range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on your county and whether the case goes to hearing.<\/p>\n<p>If the respondent is ordered into treatment, the cost of that treatment may be covered by health insurance, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.myflfamilies.com\/\">Medicaid<\/a>, or other payment sources\u2014not automatically by the petitioner. It&#8217;s worth checking what coverage your loved one has before filing.<\/p>\n<p>Legal representation is not required to file a petition, but an attorney can help ensure your petition meets all statutory requirements and is properly presented to the court, which increases the likelihood of success.<\/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\">Have questions about what happened?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask our team directly. The first conversation is free, confidential, and there is no obligation to continue.<\/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\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Can You Be Held Liable for Filing a Marchman Act Petition?<\/h2>\n<p>This is a common concern that prevents families from taking action. Florida law provides immunity to individuals who file a Marchman Act petition in good faith. Good faith means you reasonably believed the person met the criteria for involuntary assessment and treatment based on the facts you knew.<\/p>\n<p>Even if the court ultimately denies your petition, you cannot be sued by the respondent if you filed in good faith and with reasonable grounds. This protection encourages families to seek help when it&#8217;s genuinely needed without fear of retaliation.<\/p>\n<h2>The Marchman Act Petition Process: What Happens Next<\/h2>\n<p>After you file a petition, the court reviews it to determine whether probable cause exists for an involuntary assessment. If the judge finds probable cause, the respondent is taken into custody and transported to a licensed treatment facility for evaluation.<\/p>\n<p>The assessment typically occurs within 5 days. The treatment provider then submits a report recommending whether involuntary treatment is necessary. If treatment is recommended, a hearing is scheduled. At the hearing, the respondent has the right to be present, to hear the evidence against them, and to contest the petition with their own evidence or attorney.<\/p>\n<p>The judge decides whether to order involuntary inpatient or outpatient treatment based on the evidence presented and whether the respondent meets the statutory criteria. The respondent can appeal the judge&#8217;s decision.<\/p>\n<h2>When to Consider Filing a Marchman Act Petition<\/h2>\n<p>Signs that a loved one may need involuntary assessment include: severe <a href=\"https:\/\/nida.nih.gov\/\">substance use<\/a> that endangers their health or safety, inability or unwillingness to seek voluntary treatment, repeated failed attempts at rehab or recovery, behavior that threatens others, or a rapid decline in physical or mental health due to substance use.<\/p>\n<p>The Marchman Act is designed for situations where voluntary treatment is not working or is not an option. It is a serious legal step with real consequences, and it should be considered carefully with guidance from someone who understands Florida law.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I need a lawyer to file a Marchman Act petition?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, you do not need a lawyer, but an attorney can help ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and properly filed, which improves your chances of success.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment under the Marchman Act?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inpatient treatment means the person stays at a treatment facility; outpatient treatment means they live at home but attend treatment sessions and comply with court-ordered requirements.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can the respondent refuse treatment after a Marchman Act order?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, if the court orders involuntary treatment, the respondent must comply or face additional legal consequences.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How do I know if my loved one meets the criteria for a Marchman Act petition?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you believe they are abusing or dependent on a controlled substance and pose a threat to their health, safety, or welfare, you may have grounds. Speaking with an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.americanbar.org\/groups\/law_aging\/\">attorney<\/a> can help you assess whether a petition is appropriate.<\/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\/judge-reviewing-legal-documents-at-bench-with-gavel-in-court-photo-2.jpg\" alt=\"Judge reviewing legal documents at bench with gavel in courtroom.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\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\">Want to know where you stand?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell us what happened and our team will walk you through the options available to you, at no cost.<\/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 review<\/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 review<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Get Guidance on Your Situation<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re considering whether a Marchman Act petition is right for your loved one\u2014or if you&#8217;re unsure whether the Marchman Act or Baker Act applies\u2014Robinson &amp; Casey can help you understand your options and the legal process ahead. Navigating involuntary commitment law is complex, and the stakes are high for your family. A consultation can clarify who can file, what the timeline looks like, and what to expect at each stage. <a href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">Contact us today to discuss your situation<\/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.<\/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\">Who May File a Marchman Act Petition<\/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\">Family Members<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A spouse, parent, adult child, or sibling of the person struggling with substance abuse may file a petition. Close relatives often have direct knowledge of the addiction and its impact.<\/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\">Healthcare Providers<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A physician, psychiatrist, nurse, or other licensed healthcare provider who has examined or treated the person may file. Medical professionals can document the need for treatment based on clinical assessment.<\/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\">Law Enforcement &amp; Correctional Officers<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Police officers, sheriffs, and correctional staff may file a petition. These officials often encounter individuals whose addiction poses immediate danger or requires intervention.<\/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\">Other Authorized Persons<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A mental health professional, addiction counselor, or any other person approved by the court may petition. The court has discretion to allow filing by those with legitimate concern for the person&#x27;s welfare.<\/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\">Key Point<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You do not need to be a lawyer to file a Marchman Act petition. However, an attorney can help ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and properly filed\u2014steps that strengthen your case.<\/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) 849-4700 to discuss your situation<\/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) 849-4700 to discuss your situation<\/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\">What You Should Know<\/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\">Petitions Must Meet Legal Standards<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida law sets specific requirements for Marchman Act petitions. The petition must allege facts showing the person is abusing substances and poses a threat to themselves or others, or is unable to manage their affairs.<\/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--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Standing Matters<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not everyone can file. The law limits who has legal standing to petition. If you are unsure whether you qualify, an attorney can review your circumstances and advise you on the proper path forward.<\/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\">Time-Sensitive Process<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Marchman Act proceedings move quickly. Once a petition is filed, a hearing may be scheduled within days. Having legal guidance from the start helps ensure nothing is overlooked.<\/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\">Protecting Your Rights<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both the petitioner and the person subject to the petition have rights under Florida law. An attorney can help protect your interests while ensuring the process is fair and lawful.<\/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:+15618494700\">Contact Robinson &amp; Casey 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\/\">Contact Robinson &amp; Casey 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\/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\/who-pays-for-court-ordered-mental-health-treatment\/\">Who pays for court-ordered mental health treatment?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/after-marchman-act-order\/\">What Happens After a Marchman Act Order in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/after-marchman-act-order-florida\/\">What Happens After a Marchman Act Order in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/baker-act-requirements\/\">Baker Act Requirements<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/can-an-alcoholic-be-involuntarily-committed\/\">Can an alcoholic be involuntarily committed?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn who has legal standing to file a Marchman Act petition in Florida, how long the process lasts, and what happens next for your loved one.<\/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\/who-can-file-marchman-act-petition-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/es\/abogado-ley-marchman\/quien-puede-presentar-peticion-marchman-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/marchman-act-attorney\/who-can-file-marchman-act-petition-florida\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Robinson Casey\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/\"}, \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"headline\": \"Who Can File a Marchman Act Petition in Florida?\", \"publisher\": {\"@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\"]}, \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I need a lawyer to file a Marchman Act petition?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No, you do not need a lawyer, but an attorney can help ensure your petition is complete, accurate, and properly filed, which improves your chances of success.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment under the Marchman Act?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Inpatient treatment means the person stays at a treatment facility; outpatient treatment means they live at home but attend treatment sessions and comply with court-ordered requirements.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can the respondent refuse treatment after a Marchman Act order?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No, if the court orders involuntary treatment, the respondent must comply or face additional legal consequences.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How do I know if my loved one meets the criteria for a Marchman Act petition?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"If you believe they are abusing or dependent on a controlled substance and pose a threat to their health, safety, or welfare, you may have grounds. Speaking with an attorney can help you assess whether a petition is appropriate.\"}}], \"articleBody\": \"The Marchman Act allows specific family members, professionals, and officials to file a court petition for involuntary assessment and treatment when a loved one is struggling with substance abuse. 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