California · Welfare and Institutions Code - WIC

WIC §5230: If, upon evaluation, the person is found to be in need of treatment because he is, as a result of impairment by chronic alcoholism or the use of narcotics or restricted dangerous drugs, a danger to ot

Civil

What this law says, in plain English

This statute establishes procedures for holding persons with substance use or alcohol impairment for 72-hour evaluation and treatment if they pose danger to themselves or others, with specific release and disposition requirements.

Read the full statutory text

If, upon evaluation, the person is found to be in need of treatment because he is, as a result of impairment by chronic alcoholism or the use of narcotics or restricted dangerous drugs, a danger to others, or to himself, or is gravely disabled, he may be detained for treatment in a facility for 72-hour treatment and evaluation. Except as provided in this section, he shall in no event be detained longer than 72 hours from the time of evaluation or detention for evaluation, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays if treatment services are not available on those days. Persons who have been detained for evaluation and treatment shall be released if the criminal charge has been dismissed; released to the custody of the sheriff or continue to be detained pursuant to court order under Section 5226.1; referred for further care and treatment on a voluntary basis, subject to the disposition of the criminal action; certified for intensive treatment; or recommended for conservatorship pursuant to this part, subject to the disposition of the criminal charge; as required.

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.