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1. What is the Marchman Act?

Chapter 397 of the Florida Statutes is know as the "Hal S. Marchman Alcohol and Other Drug Services Act of 1993". It provides for the involuntary or voluntary assessment and stabilization of a person allegedly abusing substances like drugs or alcohol, and provides for treatment of substance abuse.

2. What is a voluntary Marchman Act admission?

A voluntary admission occurs when a person seeks treatment for substance abuse and applies to a service provider to receive such treatment.

3. What is an involuntary admission for assessment and stabilization?

An involuntary admission occurs when there is good faith reason to believe the person is substance abuse impaired, and because of such impairment, the person has: 

• Lost the power of self control with respect to substance use
• Has inflicted or attempted/threatened to inflict, or, unless admitted for treatment, is likely to inflict, physical harm to him/herself or another
• The person's judgment has been so impaired because of substance abuse that he/she is incapable of appreciating the need for substance abuse services and to make a rational decision regarding substance abuse services

4. Who files the Petition for Involuntary Assessment and Stabilization?

All substance abuse petitions in Escambia County Florida are initiated through Baptist Hospital - Lakeview Center located at:
1221 W Lakeview Avenue
Pensacola, FL 32501

Who Can File

The petition may be filed by: 

• The person's spouse or guardian
• Any relative
• A private practitioner
• The director of a licensed service provider or designee
• Any person with personal knowledge of the person

For a minor, the petition may be filed by a parent, legal guardian, legal custodian, or licensed service provider. The petitioner must have recently observed the behavior of the person who is the subject of the petition.

5. Where can I find more information about the Marchman Act?

The Marchman Act can be found in Chapter 397 of the Florida Statutes.