People may not be in the right state of mind when their mental health affects their actions. In many cases, a mental disorder can lead to criminal charges, which may involve the offender spending time behind bars and dealing with other consequences.
Simmrin Law Group has decades of experience in handling cases involving mental health disorders. Despite California’s involuntary hold laws, everyone involved has legal rights, and our mental health lawyers in Seal Beach work diligently to protect them.
Our Seal Beach criminal defense lawyers can represent you or a loved one and guide you through the legal aspects of your case. We handle a range of cases, including those involving
5150 and 5250 holds. We can review your situation when you call us today for a consultation.
Our Seal Beach Mental Health Treatment Lawyers Handle 5150 and 5250 Cases
In California, there are special rules for mental health treatment called 5150 and 5250 holds. These codes relate to involuntary psychiatric holds and extended treatment periods. Simmrin Law Group’s attorneys have experience in handling these complex and sensitive cases.
Understanding 5150 and 5250 Holds
We can explain how 5150 and 5250 holds differ and how they affect your case when we talk with you, but here’s a brief overview:
5150 Hold: A 5150 hold allows authorities to take a person with mental illness to a hospital for up to 72 hours. They must be a danger to themselves or others or can’t take care of themselves because of the disorder. This is to make sure they get the help they need right away. Having a lawyer from our firm can monitor this process to make sure it is fair.
5250 Hold: If more treatment is needed after 72 hours, a 5250 hold can be used. This allows for up to 14 more days of care. During this time, the person has a right to a certification review hearing to decide if the extra time is necessary.
For a free legal consultation with a mental health lawyer serving Seal Beach, call (310) 896-2723
How We Can Help With an Involuntary Hold Case in Seal Beach
Mental health attorneys understand how cases involving individuals with mental illness differ from other cases. You should consider hiring legal professionals who understand the unique nature of your case and will invest the time, care, and attention it needs.
An attorney with experience in mental health law can:
- Defend your rights and make sure authorities consider your mental health during the legal process. You deserve to be treated fairly and with dignity.
- Seek alternatives to jail, such as treatment programs or courts that review mental health cases. These alternatives focus on recovery and support rather than punishment.
- Provide emotional and legal support, as cases involving mental disorders can be complex and emotionally difficult. Our Seal Beach mental illness attorneys will guide you during a difficult time and connect you with helpful resources.
Our Team Will Handle All Your Case’s Tasks While You Focus on Yourself
When you hire us, we will develop a case strategy according to your case’s needs. Generally, we will handle your entire case and do all the following:
- Explain your rights: We will clearly explain your rights during a 5150 or 5250 hold so that you understand what to expect and how to protect yourself.
- Collect and review case evidence: We will collect all essential evidence to support your case.
- Represent you in court: You should receive due process and fair treatment. We will stand by your side during court hearings to make sure you receive it.
- Seek legal recourse for an improper 5150 hold: If you believe the hold is unfair, we can challenge it on your behalf.
- Create a proper care plan: We can work with mental health professionals to develop a suitable care plan for you or your loved one.
- Handle legal paperwork: We will manage all the legal documents you need during the hold process, making sure everything is in order.
- Explore other options: We review and suggest less restrictive options, like outpatient treatment, instead of a restrictive hold.
- Monitor compliance: We ensure that health facilities meet legal standards and provide the necessary care.
Seal Beach Mental Health Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What Happens if Your Seal Beach Mental Health Case Goes to Trial?
If your case must go to trial, our firm will represent you and fight for the best outcome. We can evaluate you or a loved one to see if they are competent enough to stand trial and if we can present mental health defenses, like insanity or diminished capacity.
If we do proceed to trial, we will share your side of the story with the judge and jury. We know that going to court can be stressful. You will have our support, and we will prepare you for what to expect.
We will make your case with evidence and seek a favorable result, whether that means getting the help you need or avoiding the harshest punishment. After the trial, we will explain the decision. If the outcome is not favorable, we can review the next steps, like filing an appeal.
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Our Team Handles Other Mental Health-Related Matters
Mental health-related legal issues are often complex and varied. Our Seal Beach criminal law attorneys can handle a wide range of cases beyond 5150 and 5250 holds.
Here are some other areas where we can provide support:
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Guardianship and Conservatorship
When mental illness prevents someone from making decisions about their care due to a mental illness, a guardian or conservator might be needed. We help families navigate the legal process to establish guardianship or conservatorship, ensuring that the best interests of the individual are protected.
Patients’ Rights
Individuals receiving mental health treatment have rights that others must respect. These include the right to appropriate care, to refuse certain treatments, and to have privacy. We advocate for patients and work hard to ensure that they receive the care they deserve.
Civil Rights Violations
If your civil rights have been violated due to your mental health condition, our team is here to help. This can include issues like unlawful restraint, inadequate care, or abuse in mental health facilities. We fight to hold responsible parties accountable and seek justice for our clients.
Contact Us for Help From a Seal Beach Mental Health Lawyer
It can feel like you’re on your own when facing a mental health-related criminal case or issue, but there’s no need to take it on alone. Our Seal Beach mental health lawyers have represented clients for nearly 20 years, and we have the skills and experience to lead your case.
We know California’s mental health laws as well as the rights of people with mental health needs. Call Simmrin Law Group’s office today for a consultation. Learn how legal representation can help you receive the legal and medical care that could benefit you or your loved one.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form