9 facts, history of Florida's Baker Act law

A judge in Washington state jumped into action to capture a prisoner who allegedly decided to run during a hearing.

By Kelly Healey
  • The person must be released unless he or she is charged with a crime, in which case the person must be returned to the custody of a law enforcement officer.
  • The person, unless he or she is charged with a crime, must be asked to give express and informed consent to placement on voluntary status, and if such consent is given, the person must be voluntarily admitted.
  • A petition for involuntary placement must be completed within 72 hours and be filed with the circuit court within the 72 hours.