Mental Health

PLEASE READ BEFORE PROCEEDING

This information is not intended to be legal advice, but a brief explanation of the basic procedure that is required.  Probate Court personnel cannot give legal advice about your particular situation or complete your forms for you. You are not required to have an attorney; however, the Court cannot act as your attorney. If you do not understand process or have questions on what to do, you will need to obtain other assistance.

Mental Illness

“Mental Illness” is defined by Michigan law as “a substantial disorder of thought or mood that significantly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or ability to cope with the ordinary demands of life.” MCL 330.1400(g).

Petition for Mental Health Treatment

To obtain court-ordered involuntary mental health treatment or hospitalization, a Petition for Mental Health Treatment must be filed along with two clinical certificates. 

Requests for Involuntary Mental Health Treatment are processed in the Berrien County Probate Court for any resident of Berrien County or a person that is found in Berrien County. 

Pick-Up Orders

If a person is believed to need treatment and will not voluntarily seek evaluation, a Petition for Mental Health Treatment may be filed that requests an order to for a law enforcement officer to pick up and transport the person to a facility for examination. 

The Berrien County Prosecutor’s Office assists in the filing of these Petitions. If you believe a person is in need of treatment and needs to be brought to a hospital or facility for evaluation, contact the Prosecutor’s office at: 269-983-7111, ext. 8311.