Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
If I have power of attorney for my adult son, can I have him committed to a psychiatric hospital?
2 Answers from Attorneys
You ask a complex and complicated question that is just not simple to answer.
Here are a few suggetions.
You probably need to do some more research.
1. There are more than one kind of power of attorney.
All powers of attorney documents are revokable at any time by the person that signed them.
2.However, there is another alternative.
If you believe he is a danger to himself. Then you can try to have him committed through the Harris County Mental Health Department. You must appear in person and testify under oath that he is a danger to himself. He is picked up and assessed. If he is assessed to be a danger he is kept. If he is determined to be sane, he is released.
3. You can call Adult Protective Services for assistance too.
4. Look on-line for mental health resources in the Houston area. This is a problem for many people. Adults have legal rights and it is difficult to "commit" them. I know it is difficult to watcha a person ruin their lives.
I am an Austin Divorce Attorney charging a flat fee of $975 per uncontested divorce.
Ms. Brochstein's answer is very thorough and good advice. I have worked for a psychiatric hospital representing persons in the commitment process which is designed to protect the safety and rights of the person proposed to be committed.
It is always good advice to seek out a consultation with a local lawyer is you need more information.
Good Luck!