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Simple English definitions for legal terms
involuntary civil commitment
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A quick definition of involuntary civil commitment:
Involuntary civil commitment is when someone is taken to a mental health unit even if they don't want to go. This can happen if the person has a mental illness, developmental disability, or addiction to drugs or alcohol. The main reason for this is if the person is a danger to themselves or others. There is a process that includes a hearing, a lawyer, and regular checks to make sure the person is being treated well.
A more thorough explanation:
Involuntary civil commitment is when someone is admitted to a mental health unit without their consent. This can happen for three reasons: mental illness, developmental disability, or substance addiction.
If someone is mentally ill, they may be committed if they are a danger to themselves or others. In most states, not being able to take care of oneself is considered dangerous to oneself.
When someone is involuntarily committed, they have the right to a hearing, a lawyer, and periodic reviews. Most states also have standards for the quality of treatment and the hospital environment.
For example, if someone is experiencing severe depression and is at risk of harming themselves, they may be involuntarily committed to a mental health unit for their own safety. Another example is if someone has a severe addiction to drugs and is unable to stop using, they may be committed to a substance abuse treatment facility.
These examples illustrate how involuntary civil commitment is used to protect individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others due to their mental illness, developmental disability, or substance addiction.