Massachusetts Petition For 30 Day Examination And Observation Pursuant To G.L.C. 123 18(a) (also known as "30 Day Petition") is a legal document used to request a court order for an individual (petitioner) to be examined and observed by a doctor or mental health professional for a period of 30 days. This petition is typically used when an individual is exhibiting symptoms of mental illness or substance abuse and is in need of an assessment by a qualified professional. The petition is filed with the court in the county where the petitioner resides. The petition must include the petitioner's name and address, the nature of the mental illness or substance abuse being alleged, and a request for an order of 30-day observation and examination. The petition must also include the name and address of the doctor or mental health professional who will perform the examination. The court will review the petition and then issue an order for the petitioner to be examined and observed for 30 days. If the court finds that the petitioner is in need of mental health treatment, the court will likely order the petitioner to be committed to a mental health facility for further care. There are two types of Massachusetts Petition For 30 Day Examination And Observation Pursuant To G.L.C. 123 18(a): (1) Voluntary and (2) Involuntary. Voluntary petitions are filed when the petitioner consents to the examination and observation, while involuntary petitions are filed when the petitioner does not consent.