When a loved one is struggling with addiction, families in Florida often turn to the Marchman Act—a powerful legal tool that allows them to petition the court for involuntary assessment and treatment. But while the law is statewide, the resources, support systems, and filing processes available to families can vary significantly depending on where they live. Navigating this journey isn’t just about understanding the law—it’s about knowing where to turn for help in your community.
Families navigating the Marchman Act often find that the most effective support comes from resources close to home. From treatment centers and crisis hotlines to court liaisons and legal aid organizations, each region in Florida offers unique services that can ease the burden of taking legal action during a deeply emotional time. Whether located in Miami, Tampa, or Jacksonville, having access to the right local tools and professionals can be a critical step toward helping a loved one find stability and recovery.
Why Regional Support Matters When Using the Marchman Act
Although the Marchman Act is a Florida state law, the experience of using it can vary significantly depending on where you live. Each county has its own procedures for filing petitions, conducting hearings, and connecting individuals with treatment services. This regional variation means that families often need more than a legal understanding—they need local guidance.
In some areas, courts may offer user-friendly filing systems and on-site help for petitioners; in others, families may need to rely on legal aid or private attorneys to navigate the process. Similarly, access to treatment programs differs widely: urban centers may have multiple inpatient and outpatient options, while rural regions might depend on regional partnerships or state-funded facilities with long waitlists.
Local support networks—like crisis intervention teams, behavioral health agencies, and community advocates—can help bridge the gap between legal action and lasting recovery. They offer not only logistical assistance, but emotional and practical support for families in crisis. Partnering with regional resources ensures that interventions are culturally informed, geographically accessible, and coordinated with local systems—increasing the chances of a successful outcome for everyone involved.
Statewide Support Resources
While regional services offer hands-on, local assistance, Florida also provides a range of statewide resources designed to support families navigating addiction crises under the Marchman Act. These organizations and tools can be accessed from anywhere in the state, offering critical information, treatment referrals, and crisis support regardless of location.
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF)
DCF is the state agency that oversees substance use disorder and mental health services in Florida. Their SAMH Program helps coordinate treatment providers across the state and offers resources for individuals and families seeking care. Through DCF’s website, families can find local licensed treatment providers and learn about eligibility for state-funded services.
211 Florida
Available by phone, text, or online, 211 is a confidential, 24/7 helpline that connects individuals with local resources for mental health, substance use treatment, housing, and crisis support. By simply dialing 211, families can speak with trained professionals who understand the urgency of addiction-related situations and can help guide next steps.
Florida Behavioral Health Association (FBHA)
FBHA represents over 70 community-based mental health and substance use treatment providers across the state. Their network includes both inpatient and outpatient programs, crisis stabilization units, and detox centers. FBHA’s provider directory can help families identify options that meet the specific treatment needs of their loved one.
FindTreatment.gov
Operated by the federal government, this online tool allows families to search for licensed treatment facilities by zip code, type of care, accepted insurance, and more. While not Florida-specific, it includes many state-licensed programs and is a useful starting point for families seeking immediate or long-term care.
Florida Court Self-Help Center
For families planning to initiate a Marchman Act petition on their own, the Florida Courts Self-Help Center offers forms, instructions, and legal information about civil court proceedings. While it’s not a substitute for legal advice, it can help families understand the legal side of the process.
Regional Resources by Area
While legal guidance is essential when navigating the Marchman Act, families should also be aware of the behavioral health and treatment resources available in their region. These organizations provide detox services, crisis response, outpatient care, and connections to ongoing support programs. Pairing these services with knowledgeable legal counsel, such as the team at Robinson & Casey, can create a more effective, compassionate intervention process.
North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Pensacola)
- Gateway Community Services – Jacksonville: Offers detox, residential, outpatient, and court liaison services tailored to individuals struggling with addiction.
- DISC Village – Tallahassee: Provides prevention, treatment, and intervention programs, with experience supporting Marchman Act cases.
- Lakeview Center – Pensacola: Offers behavioral health and substance use treatment, with crisis stabilization and support for family intervention.
- County Clerk of Court Offices: Responsible for Marchman Act petition filings. Check with your local clerk for filing hours, forms, and procedural guidance.
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville)
- Aspire Health Partners – Orlando: One of the largest nonprofit behavioral health providers in Central Florida, offering detox, residential care, and crisis services.
- ACTS (Agency for Community Treatment Services) – Tampa: Provides a full continuum of care, including stabilization, outpatient care, and long-term recovery planning.
- UF Health Florida Recovery Center – Gainesville: A nationally recognized treatment facility offering evidence-based care for substance use and co-occurring disorders.
South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach)
- Banyan Health Systems – Miami: Integrates primary care and behavioral health, with outpatient and residential services tailored for substance use treatment.
- Henderson Behavioral Health – Broward County: Offers 24/7 mobile crisis response and addiction treatment services throughout South Florida.
- South County Mental Health Center – Delray Beach: Provides crisis stabilization and outpatient services, with experience coordinating with local court systems.
Southwest Florida (Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota)
- SalusCare – Fort Myers: Delivers a broad range of treatment options including detox, outpatient programs, and crisis stabilization.
- David Lawrence Centers – Naples: A respected nonprofit offering inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment as well as family support services.
- Centerstone Florida – Bradenton/Sarasota: Provides comprehensive substance use and mental health treatment, with both adult and youth programs.
How Robinson & Casey Can Help
Navigating the Marchman Act process can feel overwhelming—especially during an emotional time when your primary focus is helping a loved one in crisis. At Robinson & Casey, we provide families across Florida with the legal guidance and advocacy needed to move forward with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Our team is experienced in handling the full spectrum of Marchman Act proceedings, from filing petitions and attending hearings to working with treatment providers and ensuring that court orders are properly enforced. We understand the urgency these situations demand and work swiftly to help families take decisive, effective action.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach. We take the time to understand your family’s unique circumstances and goals, and we tailor our strategy to fit both the legal requirements and the emotional realities of your situation. Whether you’re in Boca Raton, Jacksonville, or St. Petersburg, we’ll help you cut through the red tape and focus on what matters most: your loved one’s safety and long-term recovery.
If you believe the Marchman Act might be the right step for your family, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with knowledge, discretion, and care.
FAQ Section: Marchman Act in Florida
Can I use the Marchman Act more than once?
Yes, the Marchman Act can be used more than once if necessary. If a person relapses or continues to refuse treatment after a previous intervention, concerned individuals may file a new petition. Each case is reviewed independently, and the court will consider the circumstances at the time of the new filing.
Do I need an attorney to file a Marchman Act petition?
No, you are not legally required to hire an attorney to file a Marchman Act petition in Florida; the process can be completed by a family member or concerned individual through the local Clerk of Court. However, the process can involve legal forms, deadlines, and court hearings, so some families choose to consult an attorney for guidance.
Can I file a Marchman Act petition anonymously?
No, the petition must include the name and contact information of the petitioner. This helps the court verify the relationship and ensure that the petition is filed in good faith.
