South Carolina Involuntary Drug Abuse Commitment Act

In some extreme cases, individuals may be hospitalized in a substance abuse facility without their consent. Any adult may admit another person who meets specific qualifications, with the written agreement of a doctor, in the state of South Carolina.

Admission Qualifications

• The adult requesting involuntary hospital admission must agree to or provide the following information: that the individual believes the substance abuser is an addict and is a risk to himself or others, the specific risk involved, and that the person cannot exercise his own judgment regarding emergency treatment.

Extenuating Circumstances

• If the chemically addicted person is not examined by a doctor or if her whereabouts are unknown, the person wishing to enact the commitment may still submit a written statement. The court may issue a warrant lasting 72 hours for that person's immediate arrest. The patient may be held in arrest for up to 24 hours so that she can be medically examined.

Time Frame

• Within 48 hours of admission to residential treatment, the court will determine, based on the client's paperwork, if the involuntary commitment should be extended. The patient may also be transferred to a mental health facility if that is more appropriate. The court must conduct a full hearing within 20 days of admission.