Legal Definitions - civil commitment

Definition: Civil commitment refers to the legal process of involuntarily committing a person who is deemed to be mentally ill, drug-addicted, or otherwise unable to care for themselves or others. This is different from a criminal sentence, as it is intended to provide treatment and support rather than punishment.

Example: If a person is experiencing severe mental health issues and poses a danger to themselves or others, they may be civilly committed to a psychiatric hospital for treatment. This is done to ensure that they receive the care they need and to protect the safety of those around them.

Explanation: Civil commitment is a way to provide help and support to individuals who are struggling with mental health or addiction issues. By involuntarily committing them to a treatment facility, they can receive the care they need to recover and improve their quality of life. This process is done with the intention of helping the individual, rather than punishing them for their condition.