{"id":7034,"date":"2026-10-18T00:42:25","date_gmt":"2026-10-18T00:42:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-20T15:42:00","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T15:42:00","slug":"marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"Marchman Act Benzodiazepine Addiction in Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Judge reviews involuntary commitment petition documents in a Florida courtroom during a Marchman Act hearing.\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/judge-reviews-involuntary-commitment-petition-documents-in-a-photo-1.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\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Marchman Act Attorney | Miami-Dade and South Florida<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Benzodiazepine Addiction and the Marchman Act: Get Clear Answers Before You Decide Your Next Step<\/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);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Robinson Casey limits its practice to Marchman Act petitions and guardianship matters. Our team helps families across South Florida understand how involuntary commitment for addiction works, including cases involving benzodiazepines.<\/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\">Schedule a Free 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 Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/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\">What to Expect When You Contact Us<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns 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=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--check chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Free<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Initial consultation<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Confidential<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Every conversation stays private<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">No obligation<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">No commitment to continue<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">South Florida<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Serving Miami-Dade and statewide<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/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 17, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>A Marchman Act petition asks a Florida court to order an adult into assessment and treatment for substance use. This guide explains who can file, what the law requires, and how the steps usually run.<\/p>\n<h2>What the Marchman Act Is and Who It Covers<\/h2>\n<p>Its purpose is the person&#8217;s own protection and recovery.<\/p>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68112.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68112<\/a>, an adult&#8217;s spouse, legal guardian, any relative, or a service provider can file. An adult with direct personal knowledge of the impairment and prior treatment can also file.<\/p>\n<p>The statute speaks of substance abuse impairment in general terms.<\/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\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-5.jpg\" alt=\"A female judge reviews legal documents beside a gavel in a courtroom.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Florida Criteria: When Sedative Misuse Can Support a Petition<\/h2>\n<p>A petition can move forward when a person is substance impaired and has lost self-control over that use. The person must also either need services they cannot choose for themselves or pose a risk of harm. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.675.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.675<\/a> sets out these criteria.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The person needs services, and impairment keeps them from understanding that need or making a rational choice about it.<\/li>\n<li>Without care, the person is likely to neglect themselves, and that creates a real threat of substantial harm. Willing family or other services cannot prevent it, or the person has harmed, threatened, or is likely to harm themselves or others.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A refusal alone is not enough. The statute says a refusal of services does not by itself show lack of judgment. Families need concrete facts.<\/p>\n<p>Families often describe slurred speech, unsteady walking, memory gaps, sleeping through the day, and missed work or bills. Write down dates, pill counts, refill timing, incidents, and what the person said. A petition must state the facts behind your belief, as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68141.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68141<\/a> requires.<\/p>\n<p>A person taking sedatives as prescribed is in a different position from one who escalates doses, mixes them with alcohol, or gets extra pills. The facts decide which criteria fit.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Benzodiazepines Need Medical Care<\/h2>\n<p>Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly on your own can be dangerous. A <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5846112\/\">review of alprazolam misuse and withdrawal<\/a> reports that withdrawal can be severe, even with tapering. Clinical guidance supports gradual tapering to reduce withdrawal risk, as shown in <a href=\"https:\/\/medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov\/cms\/medicalrx\/static-assets\/documents\/provider\/dur\/educational-articles\/dured_31028_Clinical_Review_Recommendations_for_the_Tapering_of_Benzodiazepines.pdf\">Medi-Cal Rx tapering guidance<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Court-ordered treatment in Florida is delivered through licensed service providers. The court can order care from a publicly funded licensed provider, or from a privately funded one if the respondent can pay. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.697.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.697<\/a> provides that once a court finds the conditions for involuntary treatment services proved by clear and convincing evidence, it may order the respondent into involuntary treatment services from a publicly funded licensed service provider for no longer than 90 days, or through a privately funded licensed service provider if the respondent can pay, or if someone on the respondent&#8217;s behalf voluntarily shows a willingness and ability to pay.<\/p>\n<p>Tell us about medical emergencies, recent overdoses, or suicidal statements right away. Also share whether the person mixes sedatives with alcohol or opioids. These facts can change which steps come first.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Marchman Act Process Works, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p>A Marchman case moves from a written petition to a court hearing, then to a treatment order. The usual path looks like this.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Consultation and fact review.<\/strong> We review prescriptions, dates, incidents, and any prior treatment. We check whether the statutory criteria fit.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Filing in the right county.<\/strong> The petition goes to the clerk of the court in the county where the person is located. The clerk may not charge a filing fee, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.681.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.681<\/a>. In <a href=\"https:\/\/flcourts-media.flcourts.gov\/content\/download\/517637\/opinion\/Opinion_16-3789.pdf\">J.P. v. J.N.<\/a>, the Fifth District treated filing in the wrong county as a venue problem, not a loss of the court&#8217;s power to hear the case. Families often miss this when a loved one is in a facility outside their home county. Where a document must be verified, a signed written declaration under penalties of perjury can be used, per <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0092\/Sections\/0092.525.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 92.525<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The court&#8217;s first move.<\/strong> The court decides whether the person has a lawyer or should get one. It must schedule a hearing within 10 court working days unless a continuance is granted, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68151.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68151<\/a>. In an emergency, the court may enter an ex parte assessment order, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.6818.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.6818<\/a>. A provider may not hold the person for more than 72 hours of observation unless the statute&#8217;s exceptions apply.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Assessment and hearing.<\/strong> A clinical assessment must happen before an involuntary treatment order, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.6957.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.6957<\/a>. The petitioner carries the burden of proof. In <a href=\"https:\/\/flcourts-media.flcourts.gov\/content\/download\/633947\/opinion\/Opinion_19-0739.pdf\">J.C. v. State<\/a>, the Fifth District reversed where the judge questioned the only witness after the petitioner was absent. A Fourth District case, <a href=\"https:\/\/flcourts-media.flcourts.gov\/content\/download\/2438091\/opinion\/Opinion_2023-2185.pdf\">J.J.J. v. D.G.<\/a>, certified conflict on related questions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Order and follow-up.<\/strong> If the court finds the conditions proved by clear and convincing evidence, it may order treatment for up to 90 days. The court keeps jurisdiction to monitor compliance. Early discharge is possible when the criteria no longer apply, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.6971.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.6971<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Marchman Act vs. Baker Act and Other Routes Families Consider<\/h2>\n<p>The Marchman Act covers substance impairment. Florida&#8217;s Baker Act covers mental health crises under a different chapter of the statutes.<\/p>\n<p>Some people have both problems. Florida&#8217;s criteria recognize a substance use disorder with a co-occurring mental health disorder, as set out in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.675.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.675<\/a>. We review the facts to see which statute fits.<\/p>\n<p>Voluntary treatment is the simplest path when the person agrees. The court process can also end early if the person no longer meets the criteria and consents to voluntary status.<\/p>\n<p>When a loved one can no longer make safe decisions overall, guardianship is a separate legal matter. Robinson Casey also handles guardianship cases.<\/p>\n<h2>What the Process Costs and What Robinson Casey Handles<\/h2>\n<p>Robinson Casey focuses on Marchman Act petitions and guardianship matters, serving families in South Florida and statewide. Richard J. Casey III, Esq. is the responsible attorney. Our team, the office&#8217;s support staff, handles scheduling, document collection, and client communication.<\/p>\n<p>Filing with the clerk carries no fee. Service-of-process fees may be waived for an indigent petitioner, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.68112.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.68112<\/a>. If treatment is ordered, the full charge and the person&#8217;s fee must be disclosed before admission. The person contributes according to ability to pay, under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.431.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.431<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<p>Bring these items to your first meeting:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prescription history and pharmacy names<\/li>\n<li>Dates and details of incidents<\/li>\n<li>Medical and emergency contacts<\/li>\n<li>Any prior treatment attempts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\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\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/mazo-de-juez-sobre-escritorio-en-sala-de-tribunal-s-mbolo-de-photo-4.jpg\" alt=\"A gavel resting on a wooden courtroom desk.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Marchman Act Benzodiazepine Addiction in Florida<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What are the criteria for a Marchman Act petition?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A petition needs substance impairment and lost self-control. It also needs a need for services or a risk of harm. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0300-0399\/0397\/Sections\/0397.675.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.675<\/a>, a person meets the criteria for involuntary admission if there is good faith reason to believe that the person is substance abuse impaired or has a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder and, because of such impairment or disorder, has lost the power of self-control with respect to substance abuse.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a Marchman Act petition cover Xanax or Klonopin?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The statute addresses substance impairment in general.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Who can file a Marchman Act petition for an adult?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A spouse, legal guardian, relative, service provider, or adult with direct knowledge of the impairment can file.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long can a court order treatment?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A court may order treatment for up to 90 days. Early discharge is possible when the criteria no longer apply.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does filing a Marchman Act petition cost money?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The clerk may not charge a filing fee. Service fees may be waived for an indigent petitioner.<\/p><p>If a loved one takes more alprazolam or clonazepam than prescribed and turns down help, you do not have to sort out Florida&#8217;s process alone. Call (561) 849-4149 or <a href=\"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/contact\/\">contact our office<\/a> to talk through the facts.<\/p><\/details><\/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. Robinson Casey, 6400 Congress Ave #2050, Boca Raton, FL 33487.<\/em><\/footer>\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 Our Practice Can Help Your Family<\/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--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marchman Act Petitions<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We prepare and handle petitions under Florida&#x27;s Marchman Act for families seeking help for a loved one struggling with substance use.<\/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--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guardianship Matters<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our practice covers emergency temporary, plenary, limited, and mental health guardianship proceedings in Florida.<\/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 Situations<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a loved one&#x27;s safety is at stake, we move quickly to explain your options and the steps ahead.<\/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--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compassionate Guidance<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We understand how difficult it is to watch someone you love face benzodiazepine dependence, and we treat every family with respect.<\/p><\/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\">Benzodiazepine Dependence Can Be Dangerous to Stop Without Medical Supervision<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sudden withdrawal from benzodiazepines can cause serious medical complications. Anyone showing signs of dependence should be evaluated by a medical professional. Our practice can explain the legal process that may apply, but it does not replace medical 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\">Call (561) 849-4149<\/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) 849-4149<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\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\">Questions Families Often Ask Us<\/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\">Who can file a Marchman Act petition?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Family members and others concerned about a loved one&#x27;s substance use may consult with us about whether a petition is appropriate.<\/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\">What is involuntary commitment for addiction?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a court-ordered process that may apply when substance use impairs a person&#x27;s ability to make safe decisions. We explain how it works in plain language.<\/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\">How do guardianship matters differ?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each serves a different purpose, and we help you understand which may fit your situation.<\/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\">What happens at a consultation?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue. It is a chance to ask questions and learn about your options.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-secondary-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--secondary,#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\">Talk With Robinson Casey About Your Family&#x27;s Situation<\/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 Your Free Consultation or Call (561) 849-4149<\/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 Your Free Consultation or Call (561) 849-4149<\/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\/\">Involuntary Commitment for Addiction in Florida<\/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\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-checklist-for-parents-florida\/\">Marchman Act Checklist for Parents: Is Your Situation a Fit to Ask About?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-clinical-assessment-florida\/\">What Happens in a Marchman Act Clinical Assessment?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-co-occurring-mental-illness-florida\/\">Marchman Act for Co-Occurring Mental Illness and Addiction in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-cocaine-addiction-florida\/\">Marchman Act for Cocaine Addiction in Florida: Petition and Consultation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-consultation-preparation-checklist\/\">Marchman Act Consultation Preparation Checklist for Families<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How a Florida Marchman Act petition works for benzodiazepine (sedative) misuse: criteria, filing county, hearing steps, and timelines explained.<\/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\/marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/es\/internamiento-involuntario-adiccion\/ley-marchman-adiccion-benzodiacepinas-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@id\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/#marchman-act-benzodiazepine-service\", \"name\": \"Marchman Act for Benzodiazepine (Sedative) Addiction in Florida\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"name\": \"Marchman Act\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Benzodiazepine misuse\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Involuntary substance use treatment in Florida\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Family members, including adult children, spouses, and parents, of adults who misuse prescription sedatives in Florida\"}, \"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\"]}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Florida\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, {\"name\": \"Miami-Dade County, Florida\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}], \"description\": \"Plain-language guide to how a Florida Marchman Act petition works when a family member misuses benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) or clonazepam (Klonopin) and refuses treatment. Covers the Chapter 397 criteria, the filing court, the assessment and hearing steps, how the Marchman Act differs from the Baker Act, and questions families commonly ask about timing and cost.\", \"serviceType\": \"Marchman Act petition guidance for involuntary assessment and treatment of substance use disorder involving prescription sedatives\", \"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\": \"What are the criteria for a Marchman Act petition?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A petition needs substance impairment and lost self-control. It also needs a need for services or a risk of harm. Under Fla. Stat. \u00a7 397.675, a person meets the criteria for involuntary admission if there is good faith reason to believe that the person is substance abuse impaired or has a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder and, because of such impairment or disorder, has lost the power of self-control with respect to substance abuse.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a Marchman Act petition cover Xanax or Klonopin?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The statute addresses substance impairment in general.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Who can file a Marchman Act petition for an adult?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A spouse, legal guardian, relative, service provider, or adult with direct knowledge of the impairment can file.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long can a court order treatment?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A court may order treatment for up to 90 days. Early discharge is possible when the criteria no longer apply.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Does filing a Marchman Act petition cost money?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The clerk may not charge a filing fee. Service fees may be waived for an indigent petitioner.If a loved one takes more alprazolam or clonazepam than prescribed and turns down help, you do not have to sort out Florida's process alone. Call (561) 849-4149 or contact our office to talk through the facts.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Involuntary Commitment Addiction\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Marchman Act Benzodiazepine Addiction in Florida\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/involuntary-commitment-addiction\/marchman-act-benzodiazepine-addiction-florida\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"How a Florida Marchman Act petition works for benzodiazepine (sedative) misuse: criteria, filing county, hearing steps, and timelines explained.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-7034","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7034","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7034"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7034\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8734,"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7034\/revisions\/8734"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/212"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/robinsoncasey.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7034"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}