When someone is in a crisis or facing charges linked to a mental health condition, everything can move fast. Our mental health lawyer in La Mirada understands how these cases unfold and how to protect your rights.
Simmrin Law Group has decades of experience guiding people through these situations. Our team of attorneys has handled more than 100 jury trials in California and federal courts across the country. We gather every piece of evidence we can find—police reports, medical records, videos, texts, and witness statements—to build a strong defense.
We have served thousands of clients over 20 years, and we know how urgent these cases can be. When the situation involves a crisis hold, our La Mirada 5150 holds lawyers will guide you through the process and handle the case for you or your loved one. Call us today for a free consultation.
What Is a 5150 Mental Health Hold in California?
A 5150 hold is a 72–hour involuntary mental health hold under California Welfare and Institutions Code § 5150. Police officers, mental health workers, or certain medical staff can start a 5150 if they believe a person:
- Is a danger to themselves
- Is a danger to others
- Isn’t able to care for their basic needs because of a mental health condition
During a 5150 hold, the person is taken to a hospital or mental health facility for evaluation and stabilization. The goal is safety and short-term treatment. A 5150 hold is not a criminal charge. Our mental health lawyers will explain how a 5150 hold affects your situation and answer your questions during a free consultation.
For a free legal consultation with a 5150 holds lawyer serving La Mirada, call (310) 896-2723
Our 5150 Holds Attorneys in La Mirada Will Handle Your Case
In California, when someone is placed on an involuntary 5150 hold, the next steps come quickly. We will help you understand why the hold happened, what rights apply, and how to prepare for any hearings or evaluations.
Here’s what you can expect when we handle your case:
Full Evidence Review
We collect every record, video, and document connected to the hold or charge. This includes police reports, mental health evaluations, texts, and digital records.
Strong Courtroom Strategy
Our La Mirada attorneys for 5150 holds have handled numerous jury trials, including some of the toughest criminal cases in the state. If your case goes to court, we are ready to lead you through the trial.
Communication With Hospitals and Social Workers
We speak with doctors, hospital staff, and mental health workers to understand the full medical picture and shape a clear plan for your release or defense.
Plans Built Around Real Needs
Some clients benefit from treatment centers, medication plans, outpatient programs, or structured support. Others face no mental health issues at all and were wrongly held. We realize that each situation is different, and we adjust our strategy to match it.
La Mirada 5150 Holds Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
When Should You Contact a Lawyer for a Mental Health Hold?
People reach out to us during several stages of a mental health case, especially when they feel unsure about the next step or need clear guidance.
During or Right After a 5150 Hold
Family members often call when a loved one is placed on a 5150 and they want guidance on what happens next. Our attorneys will explain the process, speak with the hospital, and prepare for the next steps if a 5250 is possible.
Before a 5250 Hearing
This is a key moment. A strong advocate can gather medical notes, explain the person’s history, and present reasons the hold should end or be shortened.
When a Situation Involves Criminal Charges
If police believe a crime happened during a mental health crisis, an attorney is essential. Our team prepares the defense, builds timelines, contacts witnesses, and pushes for treatment options where they fit the case.
When Someone’s Rights Were Violated
Problems with police force, wrongful entry, or improper evaluation may happen. Our firm investigates these issues and takes legal action when needed.
We are there from the start of a crisis to the point where a hospital or court must decide on treatment or release. If this is where you find yourself, call us for a free consultation so that we can explain your options and begin helping you.
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How Mental Health Issues Affect Criminal Cases in La Mirada, CA
When an incident involves a mental health condition, it can shape how an arrest or charge happens. Authorities can accuse a person of resisting officers, disturbing the peace (under California Penal Code § 415), trespassing, or making threats during a crisis. Some cases even involve claims of violence or drug use tied to untreated symptoms.
Our La Mirada attorneys for psychiatric holds will review every detail, such as:
- Police body-cam footage
- Hospital records
- Text messages
- Calls for help
- Statements from family or witnesses
Once we review everything, we will build a case that gives a full picture of what happened. Courts can consider mental health factors when setting bail, choosing treatment options, or deciding whether a diversion program fits the case.
Our team pushes for safe and fair outcomes, including treatment plans, reduced charges, or alternatives to jail when they apply.
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Some Cases Involve a 5250 Hold — What Is That?
A 5250 hold is a 14–day involuntary hold that may follow a 5150. In California, this longer hold is used when doctors believe someone still poses a risk or needs more time to become stable.
A 5250 hold triggers a hearing before a neutral officer called a “certification review officer.” This hearing happens quickly, usually within a few days, and the person has the right to have an advocate or attorney speak for them.
How a 5150 Differs From a 5250
Here is the basic difference between a 5150 and 5250 at a glance:
- Length: A 5150 lasts up to 72 hours; a 5250 can last up to 14 days.
- Process: A 5150 does not require a hearing, while a 5250 does.
- Purpose: A 5150 focuses on crisis safety; a 5250 focuses on extended evaluation and treatment plans.
Our 5250 hearings lawyer in La Mirada helps clients and families understand which type of hold is happening, why it was used, and what steps come next.
Common Questions About Mental Health Holds in California
When someone is placed on a 5150 or 5250 hold, it can be hard to know what comes next. The questions below cover the issues we hear most often.
What Happens After a 5150 Hold Ends?
Once the 72 hours pass, doctors decide whether the person should go home, continue voluntary treatment, or move to a 5250 hold.
Can a Person Refuse Treatment During a 5150?
People can express their wishes, but staff can still move forward with treatment plans during the hold if they believe they need to for the person’s safety.
Can Someone Challenge a 5250 Hold?
Yes. The person has the right to a hearing. An advocate or attorney from our firm will present evidence and speak on their behalf.
Do 5150 or 5250 Holds Create a Criminal Record?
No. These holds are medical actions, not criminal convictions. However, they may show up on certain background checks for firearm ownership.
What if the Police File Charges During a Crisis?
Our 5150 holds lawyers serving La Mirada will help by reviewing the case, gathering evidence, and pursuing outcomes that consider the person’s mental health needs.
Connect With Our La Mirada 5150 Holds Lawyers for Help Today
If you or a loved one is facing a mental health hold or criminal charges tied to a crisis, Simmrin Law Group is ready to help. We know how stressful these situations can be, and our team works to bring clarity, protect your rights, and guide you through each step.
We will find out what happened in your situation and explain what our mental health lawyers can do to help. We handle all the research, gather every piece of evidence, and build a defense designed around your situation.
Call us today to talk with a lawyer who can guide you through the next steps during a free consultation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form