Being placed on an involuntary mental health hold can be frightening. Under California’s 5150 law, someone experiencing a mental health crisis can be detained for up to 72 hours, often without warning or clear explanation. Families are left desperate for answers while individuals lose their freedom, privacy, and sometimes access to trusted treatment options.
At Simmrin Law Group, we understand how distressing these situations are. Our Westminster 5150 holds lawyers represent individuals and families across California who need help navigating the involuntary hold process and protecting their rights.
With 20 years in practice and decades of combined legal experience, we know how to challenge unlawful detentions, fight for proper care, and restore dignity. When you need a compassionate Westminster mental health lawyer, our team is ready to help.
What is a 5150 Hold in California?
A 5150 hold allows certain professionals to detain someone who is believed to be a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or gravely disabled due to a mental health disorder. This authority comes from California Welfare and Institutions Code § 5150, which permits a 72-hour involuntary evaluation in a psychiatric facility.
During this period, the person is evaluated by doctors or social workers to determine whether continued treatment or hospitalization is needed. While the purpose of this law is to ensure safety, the process can be misapplied or mishandled.
Our mental health lawyers step in to make sure evaluations are lawful, medical decisions are fair, and rights are respected throughout the process.
For a free legal consultation with a 5150 holds lawyer serving Westminster, call (310) 896-2723
Understanding the 5250 Hold and Extended Detention
After the initial 72-hour period, medical staff may attempt to extend the detention under a 5250 hold, which allows for up to 14 additional days of involuntary treatment. This extension must be supported by clear evidence and often involves a certification hearing to determine whether further confinement is justified.
Our Westminster 5150 holds lawyer represents clients at these hearings, holding hospitals and counties accountable to the strict legal requirements that govern these extensions. We ensure every client has a voice and that procedural safeguards are followed before any continued detention is approved.
When appropriate, we also file petitions to challenge ongoing confinement, pushing for immediate review by a judge.
Westminster 5150 Holds Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Rights During a 5150 Hold
Even during an involuntary hold, individuals retain critical rights. Patients have the right to humane treatment, access to family or legal counsel, and in many cases, the right to refuse specific medications. Unfortunately, these rights are often overlooked during the chaos of crisis intervention.
Our Westminster 5150 holds law firm intervenes when facilities fail to respect these protections. We act quickly to ensure families are notified, paperwork is properly completed, and decisions comply with due process. If your loved one’s rights have been violated, we can move immediately to address the situation.
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How Our Westminster 5150 Holds Lawyers Can Help
Our firm combines deep experience in both criminal defense and mental health law, allowing us to handle involuntary hold cases from every angle. We represent patients, families, and guardians seeking clarity, advocacy, and relief from improper or prolonged detention.
We help our clients by:
- Challenging unlawful detentions: Reviewing medical records and holding documentation for procedural violations
- Representing clients at hearings: Advocating during 5250 certification or writ hearings for release or transfer
- Protecting legal rights: Ensuring patients maintain access to communication and consent protections
- Coordinating ongoing care: Connecting clients with outpatient treatment or community-based programs
Our Westminster 5150 holds attorney focuses not only on release but also on long-term care and recovery.
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When Mental Health Issues Overlap With Criminal Charges
Sometimes a 5150 detention happens alongside a criminal arrest or investigation. A person in crisis may face charges for behavior linked to their condition, creating a complex legal situation that requires specialized support.
As experienced 5150 holds lawyers, we coordinate with courts, prosecutors, and medical professionals to protect both the client’s freedom and their treatment rights. We work to ensure rehabilitation takes priority over punishment, exploring mental health diversion programs and other legal alternatives when appropriate.
This dual approach allows us to address both the criminal and clinical sides of the case, ensuring a fair and compassionate resolution.
Why Choose Our Mental Health Attorneys in Westminster
At Simmrin Law Group, we combine compassion with courtroom experience. Our understanding of the intersection between mental health and the law allows us to guide families through one of the most stressful experiences of their lives.
Clients trust us because:
- We’ve handled hundreds of 5150 and 5250 cases across California.
- We work directly with doctors and evaluators to ensure the law is followed and decisions are evidence-based.
- We prioritize dignity and due process for every client, protecting their rights and access to treatment.
Our Westminster 5150 holds lawyer understands the emotional toll these cases take. We handle each one with the discretion, empathy, and professionalism our clients deserve.
Get Legal Help Today
If you or a loved one has been placed on a 5150 or 5250 hold, time is critical. You have the right to challenge unlawful detentions and demand fair hearings, but those rights must be exercised quickly.
Our Westminster 5150 holds law firm helps families navigate the system and advocate for proper treatment instead of unnecessary confinement. Call Simmrin Law Group today for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your rights and regain control of your future.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form