Legal Question in Juvenile Dependency in Arizona

My son is in Florida, visiting his father, however, I do have sole legal and physical custody. On Monday, July 18th his father had him "voluntarily" put in a psych ward at P.E.M.H.S. I did not find out until July 20th. They will not tell me anything or allow me to speak to a professional, even with me offering legal documents showing I retain custody. It is now 4 days, I did speak with my son earlier and he said they are going to keep him until at least Wednesday. What can I do?


Asked on 7/22/11, 2:07 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randy Lang,J.D.,Atty. Office of the Prosecutor SCAT

I strongly suggest you retain a Florida attorney with experience in this area.

Generally speaking,if your Son is a danger to himself or others the Government can hold your Son for a reasonable observation time,usually, 3 to 7 days then it must file a Petition to Commit him and start formal proceedings with this end in mind.

You absolutely have the legal right to see and/or talk to your Son and anyone else concerning the matter,especially if you have a valid Court Order for custody of him.

You also have the individual Parental Right to be present if anyone incarcerates, questions,examines,evaluates or interrogates your Son.

I would sue anyone and everyone individually and the Government involved that violates your Parental or/and your Son's personal rights in this regard.

Cordially,

Randy D. Lang

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Answered on 8/02/11, 5:53 pm


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