Joe Considine, P.A.


Published Articles written by Joe Considine


Extensive studies and research inform us that court ordered treatment is effective in changing the behavior of individuals with substance abuse issues. Joe Considine writes extensively about the Marchman Act, and regularly conducts professional development seminars on the intricacies of this law for mental health experts and treatment professionals.





Frequently Asked Questions About The Marchman Act

September 2019

Families of individuals with substance use disorders and cooccurring mental health disorders ask many questions about the Marchman Act. The following are frequently asked questions we receive in our office and the responses.
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Florida's Marchman Act Consistent with the Science of Treating Addiction

June 2019

It is settled science that compulsory treatment or court ordered treatment is an effective tool in assisting individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) to obtain the help they need. There are a number of studies which conclude that involuntary commitment to treatment is at least as effective, if not more effective, than voluntary treatment...
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Marchman Act Helps Save Lives of Substance Impaired Individuals

December 2018

Neither the individual nor the family need be residents of Florida to use the Marchman Act. Many clients are out of state families who suggest a visit to Florida to their loved one. Once in Florida, the family or friend can file the Marchman Act papers and the Court can enter an order...
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Marchman Act Success Stories

June 2018

Families of individuals with substance use disorders (SUD’s) always are concerned about and want to know whether the Marchman Act really produces benefits. They sometimes quote the old adage that no one gets help until they have hit their own bottom and really want help.
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Florida Marchman Act Assures Confidentiality

April 2018

Florida’s Marchman Act found in Florida Statutes Chapter 397, “Hal S. Marchman Alcohol and Other Drug Services Act”, allows families, friends or those with knowledge of an individual with substance use disorder into treatment using the courts.
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Will Using The Marchman Act Help The Substance Impaired?

February 2018

In Florida, the Marchman Act is a very effective tool to get necessary help for those who are suffering from substance use disorders or impairment. Other states have laws which provide for a form of involuntary commitment for substance impaired individuals; however, Florida is alone in providing for involuntary commitment for a lengthy time.
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