what kind of lawyer is needed to get a family member committed

Full Answer

What is family law and do I need a lawyer?

Family law is law that involves family matters. These matters can include marriage, divorce, adoption, child support, custody and establishing parentage. In most cases, marriages do not require a lawyer but a prenuptial agreement should be reviewed by a lawyer.

How to find a family law attorney for a family member?

When seeking out an attorney for a family member or friend, you should seek an attorney that is experienced in these kinds of situations and is experienced in the field of law needed for your loved one’s case; whether they be a qualified and experienced family law attorney or an experienced criminal law attorney.

What kind of cases do family lawyers deal with?

2. Family Lawyers These are lawyers who handle all kinds of domestic cases, such as divorce, legal separation, child custody, adoption, paternity, alimony, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and emancipation. But family attorneys may also handle reproductive rights cases, and their work may intersect with other areas of the law.

Can a family member represent a client in a court case?

The family member or friend that pays for the client to receive legal services and hires the lawyer has no control over the case. Once again, the attorney must represent the client and owes a duty only to the client, not the person that pays the client’s bill.

How can a family member be placed in a mental institution?

How to Initiate the Process of Committing SomeoneYour family doctor or a psychiatrist.Your local hospital.A lawyer specializing in mental health law.Your local police department.Your state protection and advocacy association.

Which patient should be considered for involuntary commitment for psychiatric treatment?

Involuntary commitment should be limited to persons who pose a serious risk of physical harm to themselves or others in the near future. Under no circumstances should involuntary commitment be imposed upon someone based upon a risk of harm to property or a risk of non-physical harm.

What is the usual length of time for involuntary commitment?

It is generally limited to a brief period, usually 3–5 days; the period ranges from only 24 hours in a few states to 20 days in New Jersey. The length of an observational commitment, in states that allow it, varies from 48 hours in Alaska to 6 months in West Virginia.

Can a mentally ill person be forced to take medication?

United States. Mentally competent patients have a general right to refuse medical treatment. All states in the U.S. allow for some form of involuntary treatment for mental illness or erratic behavior for short periods of time under emergency conditions, although criteria vary.