Involuntary Mental Health Holds in Wyoming: A Guide for Families
What Is an Involuntary Hold?
When someone is in a serious mental health crisis and may be a danger to themselves or others, Wyoming law allows them to be placed on an involuntary mental health hold. This process is outlined in Wyoming Statutes Title 25, Chapter 10.
The purpose of a hold is not punishment. It is meant to provide safety, stabilization, and access to treatment when a person is too ill to seek help voluntarily.
When Can a Person Be Held in Wyoming?
Under Chapter 25, a person may be held if they appear to have a mental illness and:
Are a danger to themselves (such as suicidal threats or behavior)
Are a danger to others (such as threats or violent acts)
Cannot meet their basic needs because of their condition
These criteria must be recent, observable, and create a substantial risk of harm.
Who Can Start the Process?
An involuntary hold in Wyoming can be initiated by:
Law enforcement officers, when they personally observe danger or respond to a crisis
Licensed physicians or mental health professionals, who can apply for emergency detention
Any concerned person, who may file an application with the court for emergency detention or long-term commitment
The Emergency Hold (72 Hours)
A person can be placed in emergency detention for up to 72 hours (not counting weekends or legal holidays).
During this time, they are taken to a hospital or designated treatment facility.
They receive evaluation, stabilization, and emergency care.
If further treatment is needed, the county attorney may file a petition for involuntary hospitalization in district court.
The Court Process
Petition for Involuntary Hospitalization
Filed by the county attorney if doctors believe longer treatment is needed.
Probable Cause Hearing (within 72 hours of filing)
A judge decides if there is enough evidence to keep the person hospitalized while the case proceeds.
Final Commitment Hearing (within 10 days)
The person has the right to be present, to have an attorney (appointed if needed), to present evidence, and to call witnesses.
The court decides whether the person meets the legal criteria for commitment.
Court Orders
If the court finds the criteria are met, it may order inpatient treatment at a state hospital or other designated facility.
The initial order may last up to 90 days, with possible extensions if needed.
Patient Rights in Wyoming
Even during an involuntary hold, people have important protections:
The right to be informed of why they are being held
The right to an attorney (appointed if they cannot afford one)
The right to a hearing within legal time limits
The right to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses
The right to humane treatment in the least restrictive setting possible
What Families Can Do
Provide Information
Share medical history, medications, or recent changes in behavior with staff.
Even if staff cannot share details with you (because of privacy laws), your input helps.
Stay Involved
Ask where your loved one is being held.
Note the dates of detention and hearings.
Attend hearings if allowed, and support your loved one’s rights.
Offer Emotional Support
Reassure your loved one that this is about care, not punishment.
Send messages of support if visits are limited.
Plan for Aftercare
Ask about discharge planning, outpatient therapy, and medication follow-up.
Explore local resources for ongoing support.
Common Questions Families Ask
How long can someone be held without a court order in Wyoming?
Up to 72 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays.
What happens after the 72 hours?
The county attorney must file a petition. A judge then holds a hearing to decide next steps.
How long can a court-ordered commitment last?
The first order may last up to 90 days. Renewals are possible if the person still meets criteria.
Does this go on a criminal record?
No. This is a civil process, not a criminal charge.
Is outpatient treatment an option?
Wyoming law primarily provides for inpatient treatment under Chapter 25, but voluntary outpatient treatment may be part of discharge planning.
Final Thoughts
Having a loved one placed on an involuntary hold in Wyoming is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face. You may feel powerless, scared, or unsure of what comes next.
Remember:
Emergency detention is about safety and stabilization.
Your loved one still has rights and legal protections.
You can play a vital role by sharing information, showing support, and staying involved.
With knowledge and compassion, families can help their loved ones move from crisis toward recovery.
