Get Tx Application For Emergency Detention - El Paso County 2019-2025

A warrant, if issued by a judge, or a warrantless ED, if executed by law enforcement, to obtain a medical assessment to determine whether an individual, who evidences an imminent, substantial risk of serious harm to self or others, needs court- ordered or involuntary hospitalization.

You may not be detained for more than 48 hours after you arrive at the facility unless a judge signs an Order of Protective Custody (OPC). If the 48-hour period ends on a weekend or holiday, you may be detained until 4 p.m. on the next business day.

The majority of a 72-hour hold consists of monitoring and evaluation. This period is often known as a time for observation. The treatment team will thoroughly assess the patient to determine if they need more long-term involuntary services.

Under either a peace officer ED or an ED warrant, an individual may be detained for up to 48 hours without an order of protective custody.

In most states, an involuntary psychiatric commitment cannot extend beyond 72 hours without a formal hearing. This 3-day period allows patients to receive basic medical treatment, recover from psychotic episodes and hopefully understand the need for further help.

The main criteria for the detention of a mentally ill person, with or without a warrant, are that the person must evidence an imminent, substantial risk of serious harm to self or others. It is possible for a magistrate to issue an Emergency Detention Warrant.