sections 16 and 17 of the Federal Mental Health Law

Sections 16 and 17 of the Federal Mental Health Law outline the procedures for involuntary hospitalization and treatment. Section 16 provides criteria and processes for temporarily detaining individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness, ensuring they receive assessment and treatment. Section 17 details the procedures for extending hospitalization beyond initial detention, including necessary legal reviews and safeguards to protect individual rights. Together, these sections balance the need for treatment and public safety with protections against unwarranted detention.