Involuntary Mental Health Holds in Colorado: 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 suddenly hear terms like “M-1 hold” or “72-hour hold” and wonder what they mean.
In Colorado, these terms refer to specific laws that allow a person to be placed in a psychiatric facility for evaluation and treatment without their consent. This process is called an involuntary hold.
While the idea may sound overwhelming, the purpose 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 explain what it means, what to expect, and how you can best support them.
What Is an Involuntary Hold in Colorado?
An involuntary hold is a legal process that allows someone experiencing a severe mental health crisis to be evaluated and treated in a hospital or designated treatment facility.
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)
In Colorado, these holds are guided by Title 27, Article 65 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.).
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Hold
Families often feel lost when a hold begins. Here’s a general timeline in Colorado:
Crisis Point
A loved one threatens suicide, becomes violent, or is unable to care for themselves.
You or someone else calls 911, a crisis line, or law enforcement is involved.
M-1 Hold (Emergency 72-Hour Hold)
An “intervening professional” (peace officer, physician, psychiatric/mental-health RN, licensed clinical social worker, LPC/LMFT, or licensed addiction counselor) may place someone on an M-1 hold if they meet the criteria.
The person is transported to an approved facility.
Importantly, a person on an M-1 cannot be held in jail or a lock-up.
Hospital Evaluation
Mental health professionals evaluate your loved one.
Doctors may start emergency treatment.
End of 72 Hours
If the person is no longer at risk, they may be released.
If more care is needed, the facility may file a short-term certification (up to 3 months).
Certification Hearing (if requested)
The patient has the right to legal counsel.
If they or their lawyer request review, the court must hear it within 10 days.
Possible Outcomes
Release: If your loved one no longer meets criteria.
Voluntary treatment: If they agree to stay.
Extended treatment: Short-term, extended short-term, or long-term certification.
Other entry path: A judge may also order a court-ordered evaluation (M-3), which can lead into the same process.
The Different Types of Holds in Colorado
M-1 Hold (Emergency 72 Hours)
Purpose: Crisis evaluation and stabilization.
Duration: Up to 72 hours. Weekends/holidays may be excluded only if the facility doesn’t provide evaluation/treatment services on those days.
Who Can Initiate: Peace officers, physicians, psychiatric/mental-health nurses, licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, marriage/family therapists, or licensed addiction counselors.
What to Expect: Your loved one will be evaluated and may begin treatment. They can be released earlier if safe.
Short-Term Certification (Up to 3 Months)
Purpose: Extended treatment if the person still meets criteria after the M-1.
Process: The professional in charge may certify the person for short-term treatment.
Rights: The patient can request court review, which must be heard within 10 days.
Duration: Up to 3 months.
Extended Short-Term Certification (Additional 3 Months)
Purpose: For people who need more time beyond the initial 3 months but do not yet require long-term certification.
Duration: Up to 3 additional months.
Rights: The patient has the same rights to legal counsel and court review.
Long-Term Certification (Up to 6 Months)
Purpose: For people who continue to meet criteria after short-term certification.
Duration: Up to 6 months.
Process: Court involvement is required, and the patient has the right to counsel and to challenge the certification.
Court-Ordered Commitment (Beyond 6 Months)
Purpose: If the person continues to be a danger to themselves or others, or remains gravely disabled, the court can extend treatment beyond six months.
Process: Involves more formal court proceedings. In some cases, the person may have the right to a jury determination of facts.
Patient Rights During a Hold
Even when someone is on an involuntary hold in Colorado, they still have important rights:
To know why they are being held
To request a lawyer or legal advocate
To attend and speak at certification hearings
To refuse some treatments (except in emergencies or by court order)
To make phone calls and receive visitors (with safety limits)
Every facility in Colorado must provide information about patient rights and how to contact the local patients’ rights advocate.
How Families Can Support a Loved One
Offer Emotional Support
Stay calm and let your loved one know you care.
Reassure them this is about safety and recovery, not punishment.
Stay Informed
Ask for the names of staff involved in your loved one’s care.
Keep a notebook of dates, decisions, and contact information.
Bring Essentials
If permitted: clothing, toiletries, and small comfort items.
Share Information
Even if staff cannot share details with you (because of HIPAA privacy laws), you can always share your concerns, history, or observations.
Plan Ahead
Ask about discharge planning, outpatient programs, and ongoing therapy options.
Care for Yourself
Supporting a loved one in crisis is emotionally draining. Reach out for your own support through friends, therapy, or family programs.
Common Questions Families Ask
How long is an involuntary hold in Colorado?
The first emergency hold (M-1) is up to 72 hours. If more treatment is needed, short-term certification (3 months), extended short-term (3 more months), and long-term (6 months) are possible.
Do weekends count toward the 72 hours?
Weekends and holidays may be excluded only if the facility does not provide evaluation/treatment on those days.
Can someone be released before 72 hours?
Yes. If doctors decide the person is no longer a danger to themselves or others, they can be released early.
Will my loved one have a criminal record?
No. An M-1 hold or certification is not a crime. It is a medical and legal process for safety.
Who pays for the hospital stay?
Insurance is usually billed if available. If uninsured, the county or Colorado Crisis System may cover emergency services. Ask the facility about financial assistance.
Can I visit my loved one?
Most facilities allow visits, but rules vary. Call ahead about visiting hours.
What if my loved one refuses treatment?
During the emergency hold, doctors can provide necessary treatment. For longer care, certifications and court processes are required.
Final Thoughts
Having a loved one placed on an involuntary hold in Colorado can be frightening and confusing. It may feel like you have no control—but remember:
An involuntary hold is not a punishment, it is a step toward safety.
Your loved one still has rights and dignity.
You can play an important role by staying calm, informed, and supportive.
With the right information and resources, you can help your loved one move from crisis to recovery.
