Baker Act
The Florida Mental Health Act, also known as the “Baker Act,” was enacted in 1971 as a means of helping families and loved ones seek evaluation and involuntary services of a mentally ill individual who:- Is incapable of determining the need for care due to mental illness.
- Is likely to suffer neglect.
- Refuses to care for himself or herself, posing a threat to his or her well-being.
- May pose a danger to themselves or others.
Marchman Act
Meridian staff is also qualified to advise those struggling with substance use issues under the Hal S. Marchman Alcohol and Other Drug Services Act of 1993, derived from a combination of 1970 statutes commonly referred to as the “Marchman Act.” A Petition for Involuntary Marchman Act Assessment may be filed by family or Meridian staff when there is good faith reason to believe an individual is:- Substance-abuse impaired, causing a loss of substance use self-control.
- Suffering with drug or alcohol use that appears to pose danger to the individual or others.
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