Court-Ordered Mental Health Evaluation
and Treatment
Arizona statutes create a procedure for seeking a court-ordered evaluation for a person who needs immediate mental health care.
If a court finds certain criteria are met, it may order the person to submit to an evaluation. If the evaluation establishes that the
person needs treatment, a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and other behavioral health professionals will
then work collaboratively with referring physicians, behavioral health agencies, and other health care professionals in an effort to ensure
the best possible outcome for the patient.
Any responsible person may apply for a court-ordered evaluation of someone who is unable or unwilling to seek needed mental health care.
Assistance with the application process is available. If you are located in Pima County, call (520) 622-6000 or 800-796-6762 to reach the
Community-Wide Crisis Line. It provides mental health crisis services around-the-clock, 365 days a year.
The Pima County Attorney's
Health Law Unit
participates in the legal proceedings necessary to seek a court
order for involuntary mental health evaluation or treatment. If
a court orders a person involuntarily committed for evaluation
or treatment, the commitment is civil in nature, and its
duration is limited by statute.
For downloadable information about the process:
Court-Ordered Mental Health Brochure
