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.
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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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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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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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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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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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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