Has a mental health crisis led to court involvement or emergency detention? In the state of California, mental health laws are designed to protect individuals, though they can also result in legal action that ends up being confusing and intimidating.
The intersection of mental illness and the legal system is not always straightforward, especially when your rights and your safety are weighed against public interest. However, you’re not alone in any of this—a Santa Clarita mental health lawyer can help.
At Simmrin Law Group, we have decades of legal experience backing us. In that time, we have helped thousands of clients in positions similar to yours. You can trust us to represent you as your Santa Clarita criminal defense lawyer.
Lanterman–Petris–Short (LPS) Act
The Lanterman–Petris–Short (LPS) Act regulates the involuntary commitment of individuals with mental health disorders in California. Under this act, you can be detained for evaluation if you’re deemed a danger to yourself and others or if you are gravely disabled due to a mental disorder.
Here are the three stages of the process:
- 5150 Hold: Allows for a 72-hour involuntary detention for evaluation and treatment
- 5250 Hold: Extends the detention for an additional 14 days if necessary
- Conservatorships: Allow an appointed person to make decisions on their behalf
These provisions aim to ensure that individuals receive necessary treatment while safeguarding their constitutional rights.
For a free legal consultation with a mental health lawyer serving Santa Clarita, call (310) 896-2723
Mental Health Diversion
California law provides for mental health diversion. It allows people with mental health disorders to be diverted from the criminal justice system into treatment programs.
These three points serve as criteria that denote your potential eligibility for diversion:
- The individual has a diagnosed mental health disorder
- The disorder significantly contributed to the commission of the charged offense
- The individual agrees to participate in treatment
Successful completion of the diversion program can lead to the dismissal of charges.
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Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT)
Also known as Laura’s Law, Assisted Outpatient Treatment allows counties to implement court-ordered outpatient treatment for those who not only have serious mental illnesses but who also have a history of non-compliance with treatment.
Furthermore, it is intended to help people who are unlikely to survive safely in the community without supervision. Here are the eligibility criteria for Assisted Outpatient Treatment:
- Being 18 years or older
- Suffering from a serious mental illness
- Having a history of psychiatric hospitalizations or incarceration
- Being unlikely to survive safely in the community without supervision
Participation in AOT is intended to be the least restrictive alternative necessary to ensure the individual’s recovery and stability.
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Crisis Intervention and Support Services
In addition to the above legal frameworks, various crisis intervention and support services are available in Santa Clarita and throughout California. These services aim to provide immediate assistance to individuals experiencing mental health crises:
- Crisis Stabilization Units: Facilities providing short-term care for individuals in crisis
- Mobile Crisis Teams: Teams of mental health professionals who respond to crises
- 24/7 Helplines: Hotlines offering immediate support and resources
These services are designed to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with appropriate care.
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Legal Considerations for Families and Individuals
Figuring out the legal aspects of mental health care can be complicated and confusing. Those who need assistance—as well as their families—should be aware of their rights and responsibilities under California law.
Here are some considerations worth noting:
- Informed consent: You have the right to make decisions about your treatment, including the right to refuse treatment, unless you are deemed incapable of making informed decisions.
- Confidentiality: Mental health professionals are generally required to maintain confidentiality, though certain exceptions may arise, such as situations that involve an imminent risk of harm.
- Guardianship and conservatorship: In cases where you might be unable to make decisions for yourself, the court may appoint a guardian or conservator to make decisions on your behalf.
- Due process rights: If you are subject to involuntary treatment or commitment, you still have the right to due process, including notice of hearings and the opportunity to be heard.
If mental health challenges have resulted in legal intervention—whether through involuntary hospitalization, court-ordered treatment, or criminal charges—you’re not alone in this. For many, these experiences can be emotionally overwhelming, legally confusing, and deeply personal.
The intersection of mental health and the justice system often raises difficult questions about your rights and safety in the process of prioritizing your long-term well-being, all while placing enormous stress on everyone involved. However, you’re not alone.
You may be feeling uncertain, anxious, or powerless, but it’s important to understand that you do not have to go through these circumstances by yourself. Mental health attorneys in Santa Clarita are the ones to call when you need support, insight, and advocacy.
Contact Our Mental Health Law Firm in Santa Clarita for Legal Advice and Help With Your Ongoing Case
Reach out to Simmrin Law Group at your earliest convenience. Our Santa Clarita mental health lawyers have a deep understanding of how California’s mental health laws apply in both civil and criminal cases, and we’re here to ensure you’re treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Whether your situation involves a psychiatric hold, a potential conservatorship, or the possibility of criminal diversion, we promise to take the time to understand your needs. From there, we can develop a clear legal strategy on your behalf as we help you move forward with your case.
Don’t wait to seek the guidance and support you deserve. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start reviewing your case, safeguarding your rights, and working toward a resolution that not only addresses your legal concerns but also prioritizes your mental health.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form