Any person who is sixteen years or older, appears to be and believes himself to be chemically dependent, may make written application for voluntary admission to a treatment facility. Application may be made on behalf of any person under sixteen years of age by the parent or legal guardian. Upon receipt of the application, the head of the treatment facility may receive the patient for observation and diagnosis. If evidence of chemical dependency is found, the patient may be given care and treatment at the facility. An individualized treatment plan must be developed for the person as soon as possible after admittance.
Any person voluntarily admitted to a treatment facility must be given notice of his rights under this chapter at the time of his admission. A voluntary patient must be informed that, upon a written request for release, the head of the treatment facility may initiate judicial proceedings for involuntary commitment.
HISTORY: 1986 Act No. 487, Section 2; 1987 Act No. 116 Section 1.
Structure South Carolina Code of Laws
Chapter 52 - Alcohol And Drug Abuse Commitment
Section 44-52-5. Statement of policy.
Section 44-52-10. Definitions.
Section 44-52-20. Voluntary admission.
Section 44-52-30. Discharge of voluntary patient.
Section 44-52-40. Release of voluntary patient.
Section 44-52-50. Procedure for emergency admission.
Section 44-52-65. Transfer of patients under emergency commitment.
Section 44-52-70. Involuntary commitment; examination; report; commencement of judicial proceedings.
Section 44-52-80. Involuntary commitment; notice of hearing.
Section 44-52-90. Contents of report; background investigation; counsel to have access to reports.
Section 44-52-110. Involuntary commitment; conduct of hearing and effect of findings.
Section 44-52-120. Involuntary commitment; period of treatment.
Section 44-52-130. Transfer of patient.
Section 44-52-140. Release of patient for temporary leave of absence.
Section 44-52-160. Violation of conditions of release; supplemental proceedings and recommitment.
Section 44-52-200. Authority of State Department of Mental Health.
Section 44-52-210. Comprehensive program for chemically dependent persons.