Involuntary Mental Health Holds in California: A Guide for Families
When someone you love is in the middle of a mental health crisis, it can feel frightening and overwhelming. You may hear terms like “5150” or “5250” and wonder what they mean, or worry about what will happen next.
In California, these numbers refer to specific laws that allow a person to be placed in a psychiatric hospital for evaluation and treatment, even if they do not agree. This process is called an involuntary hold.
The goal of an involuntary hold is not punishment—it is safety and stabilization. If your loved one has been placed on a hold, this guide will walk you through what it means, what to expect, and how you can best support them.
What Is an Involuntary Hold?
An involuntary hold allows someone experiencing a severe mental health crisis to be evaluated and treated in a hospital setting. In California, these holds are governed by the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act.
A person may be placed on a hold if, due to a mental health condition, they are:
A danger to themselves (for example, suicidal thoughts or actions)
A danger to others (for example, violent threats or behavior)
Gravely disabled (unable to provide for basic needs like food, clothing, or shelter)
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Hold
Families often feel lost when a hold begins. Here is a typical timeline:
Crisis Point
A loved one shows suicidal behavior, threats, or is unable to care for themselves.
You or someone else calls 911, a crisis hotline, or law enforcement is involved.
Initial Hold (5150)
If the crisis team or officer determines the criteria are met, the person is placed on a 5150 hold and transported to a hospital.
Hospital Evaluation
Doctors and mental health staff evaluate your loved one.
They may start medication or provide emergency care.
End of 72 Hours
Doctors decide if the person can safely be released, or if they need further treatment.
If more time is needed, the hold may be extended to a 5250 (14-day hold).
Hearing (for longer holds)
Within 4 days of starting a 5250, a probable cause hearing is held.
Your loved one has the right to a lawyer or advocate. Families may sometimes provide input.
Possible Outcomes
Release: If your loved one no longer meets criteria.
Voluntary treatment: If they agree to stay in the hospital.
Extended hold: If they still need care (5260, 5270, or conservatorship).
The Different Types of Holds in California
5150 Hold (72 Hours)
Purpose: Emergency evaluation and crisis stabilization.
Duration: Up to 72 hours.
Who Can Initiate: Police officers, licensed clinicians, crisis workers.
What to Expect: Your loved one will be monitored and treated. They may be released sooner if no longer at risk.
5250 Hold (14 Days)
Purpose: Ongoing treatment when the person still meets criteria after a 5150.
Duration: Up to 14 days.
Legal Rights: A hearing (also called a certification review hearing) is held within 4 days. The patient has a lawyer or advocate.
What to Expect: Structured care with therapy, medication, and planning for next steps. Families may be contacted about discharge planning.
5260 Hold (14 Days for Suicide Risk)
Purpose: Extra time if the person attempted suicide or remains at high risk.
Duration: Up to 14 more days.
Focus: Suicide prevention and stabilization.
5270 Hold (30 Days)
Purpose: For people who remain gravely disabled and need longer care.
Duration: Up to 30 days.
Legal Rights: A certification hearing must be held.
Conservatorship (Long-Term Care)
Purpose: For people who cannot safely live on their own after shorter holds.
Process: A judge appoints a conservator (often a family member or a county public guardian).
Duration: Usually 1 year, but renewable.
Impact: The conservator may make decisions about housing, finances, and medical care.
Patient Rights During a Hold
Even when a person is on an involuntary hold, they still have important rights:
To know why they are being held
To request a lawyer or Patients’ Rights Advocate
To attend and speak at hearings
To refuse some treatments (except in emergencies or by court order)
To make phone calls and receive visitors (with reasonable limits)
Every California county has a Patients’ Rights Office. Ask hospital staff for contact information.
How Families Can Support a Loved One
Offer Emotional Support
Stay calm and reassuring.
Remind them you care and are not giving up on them.
Stay Informed
Write down the names of doctors, nurses, and case managers.
Ask what the next steps will look like.
Bring Essentials
If allowed: clean clothes, toiletries, a phone charger, or comforting items like a blanket or book.
Share Information
Even if staff cannot share everything with you (because of privacy laws like HIPAA), you can share what you know about your loved one’s condition, medications, or recent behavior.
Plan Ahead
Ask about discharge planning.
Find out about outpatient therapy, medication management, or support groups.
Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone in crisis is stressful. Lean on friends, therapy, or support groups for your own well-being.
Common Questions Families Ask
How long can someone be held on a psychiatric hold in California?
A 5150 is up to 72 hours. If more care is needed, it can extend to a 5250 (14 days), then possibly longer holds.
Can my loved one be released early?
Yes. If doctors decide the person is no longer a danger to themselves or others, they can be released before the full 72 hours or 14 days.
Can I visit my loved one?
Most facilities allow visitors, but times may be limited. Call ahead to ask about visiting hours and rules.
Will this go on their criminal record?
No. A psychiatric hold is a medical and legal process for safety. It is not a crime.
Who pays for the hospital stay?
Costs are usually billed to health insurance if available. If uninsured, the county may cover emergency care, but families should ask about financial assistance.
What if my loved one refuses treatment?
During a 5150 or 5250, doctors can provide emergency treatment. For longer care, hearings and court orders may be required.
Final Thoughts
Having a loved one placed on an involuntary hold in California can be one of the hardest experiences for a family. It may feel frightening, confusing, and out of your control. Remember:
This is not a punishment—it is a step toward safety and recovery.
Your loved one still has rights and dignity.
You can play a vital role by staying calm, informed, and supportive.
With knowledge of the process and the right resources, you can help guide your loved one from crisis toward healing.
