Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Re: heroin addict out of control, danger to self and possibly others

You can go to the family and probate court and file a motion under rule 35 (a). You may also file a petition to become this person's guardian or conservator. In such a case it must appear to the Probate Court that the ward is incapacitated to such a degree that he is unable to make informed decisions regarding his personal and financial affairs

Re: heroin addict out of control, danger to self and possibly others

Go to your Mass. courthouse nearest to where they live and talk to the Clerk's Office about filing a "SECTION 35"

: heroin addict out of control, danger to self and possibly others

If you believe this, I agree that you should file a complaint. The court psychologist may speak to you about this. Then this will go before a judge, who will issue, what is essentially, a warrant, to get this person, and bring the person to court. Then the person will be interviewed by the psychologist, if the person is willing. This would permit a commitment.

There may be other options, depending on the facts.