When Forced Drug Treatment Is the Only Option Left

If your family member or loved one suffers from addiction, then you know the heartache, pain, and worrying that comes with it. Sometimes the addiction continues to the point that he or she presents self-danger or danger to others. An addict may steal from others, have outbursts of violence or anger, or may experience extreme physical effects from the substance abuse. Thanks to the Marchman Act in the State of Florida, you have the option of appealing to the court for forced drug treatment, or rehabilitation for a severely addicted person.

How Do I Start?

The first step in taking legal action to help your loved one is hiring an experienced, compassionate attorney. With legal help, you can ensure that the court hears your story and case fully, and turns its attention to helping your loved one through detox, rehabilitation, and finally integration back into a normal lifestyle. Hiring an attorney that has experience in the field of forced drug rehabilitation is also very important because these attorneys know how to utilize the system efficiently and advantageously.

What’s an Ex-Parte Petition?

An ex-parte petition is a petition filed in the absence of the addicted person that states that you and your attorney feel this person needs involuntary admission to a detox or treatment facility as soon as possible. If the court grants an ex-parte petition, and determines that forced treatment is appropriate, your loved one will be taken to a detox center as soon as possible. The ex-parte hearing is an important tool when your loved one is in need of immediate care.

How Does My Attorney Help After a Petition Has Been Granted?

Your attorney will work with you until your loved one has finished their course of treatment as directed by the court. Your attorney may help in reviewing and updating the case in court, and if your loved one isn’t responding to treatment at one facility, he or she can help with placement elsewhere. Your attorney will also make sure that your loved one follows all court orders, and can file a new petition with the court if your loved one leaves treatment prematurely.