Compassionate Care Through the Marchman Act
Addiction Treatment in Florida
When someone you love is struggling with addiction and refuses help, the Florida Marchman Act provides a path to court-ordered treatment that can save their life. We connect families with licensed treatment facilities and guide you through every step of the process.
The Disease of Addiction
Understanding Why Treatment is Essential
Addiction is a chronic brain disease that fundamentally changes how the brain functions. It's not a choice, a moral failing, or a lack of willpower—it's a medical condition that requires professional treatment.
When someone is in the grip of addiction, their brain has been rewired to prioritize substance use above everything else—including their own health, relationships, career, and safety. This is why people with severe addiction often cannot simply "decide" to stop, even when facing devastating consequences.
The good news is that addiction is treatable. With proper medical care, therapy, and support, people recover every day. The Florida Marchman Act exists specifically to help families get their loved ones into treatment when they cannot or will not seek help on their own.
Levels of Care
Types of Addiction Treatment
Effective addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all. The right level of care depends on the severity of addiction, substances involved, medical history, and individual needs. Here are the main types of treatment available through the Marchman Act process.
Medical Detoxification
Duration: 3-10 days
The critical first step in treatment. Medical detox provides 24/7 medical supervision to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, which can be dangerous or even life-threatening for certain substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids.
- 24/7 medical monitoring
- Medication-assisted withdrawal management
- Vital signs monitoring
- Transition planning to next level of care
Residential Treatment
Duration: 30-90 days
Comprehensive, immersive treatment in a structured environment. Clients live at the facility and participate in intensive therapy, group sessions, and recovery programming. This level of care removes individuals from triggers and provides the foundation for lasting recovery.
- 24/7 structured environment
- Individual and group therapy
- Evidence-based treatment modalities
- Life skills and coping strategies
- Family therapy sessions
Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
Duration: 2-4 weeks
Intensive structured treatment during the day while clients return home or to sober living at night. PHP typically involves 5-7 hours of programming daily, including therapy, groups, and skill-building activities.
- 5-7 hours of daily programming
- Intensive therapeutic support
- Medication management
- Step-down from residential care
Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
Duration: 6-12 weeks
Flexible treatment that allows clients to maintain work or school while attending structured programming several times per week. IOP is ideal as a step-down from higher levels of care or for those with strong support systems.
- 3-4 sessions per week
- 3-4 hours per session
- Group and individual therapy
- Relapse prevention planning
Outpatient Treatment
Duration: Ongoing
The least intensive level of care, outpatient treatment provides continued support through regular therapy sessions and check-ins. This is typically used for long-term maintenance and ongoing recovery support.
- Weekly therapy sessions
- Psychiatry appointments
- Support group meetings
- Ongoing accountability
Sober Living
Duration: 3-12 months
A structured, substance-free living environment that bridges the gap between treatment and independent living. Sober living homes provide accountability, peer support, and a safe space to practice recovery skills in real-world settings.
- Drug-free living environment
- Peer accountability
- House rules and structure
- Transition support
Not Sure Which Level of Care is Right?
Our experienced team will help assess your loved one's situation and recommend the appropriate level of treatment. Every person's journey to recovery is unique.
Comprehensive Care
Substances We Treat Through the Marchman Act
The Marchman Act can be used for any substance abuse disorder that impairs a person's judgment and creates a danger to themselves or others. Our treatment partners specialize in treating all types of addiction.
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol use disorder is the most common addiction in Florida. Withdrawal can be medically dangerous, making professional detox essential. Treatment addresses both physical dependence and psychological factors.
- Inability to control drinking
- Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Continued use despite consequences
Opioid Addiction
Including heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and other prescription painkillers. Opioid addiction has reached epidemic levels in Florida. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combined with therapy offers the best outcomes.
- Needing higher doses for effect
- Flu-like withdrawal symptoms
- Doctor shopping or illegal acquisition
- Needle marks or track marks
Benzodiazepine Addiction
Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Ativan are commonly misused. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause life-threatening seizures, making medical detox absolutely critical for safety.
- Taking more than prescribed
- Severe anxiety without medication
- Memory problems and confusion
- Combining with alcohol or opioids
Cocaine & Stimulants
Including cocaine, crack, methamphetamine, and prescription stimulants like Adderall. Stimulant addiction causes intense cravings and can lead to severe psychological symptoms including paranoia and psychosis.
- Extreme energy followed by crashes
- Weight loss and poor hygiene
- Paranoia or aggressive behavior
- Financial problems from drug use
Cannabis Use Disorder
While often perceived as less harmful, cannabis addiction is real and can significantly impair functioning. Today's high-potency products increase addiction risk and can trigger mental health issues.
- Daily use despite wanting to stop
- Loss of motivation and ambition
- Irritability when unable to use
- Interference with work or school
Prescription Drug Abuse
Many addictions begin with legitimate prescriptions. Sleep aids, muscle relaxers, and other medications can become addictive. We treat all forms of prescription drug dependence with compassion and expertise.
- Using medications not as prescribed
- Seeking multiple prescriptions
- Combining with other substances
- Hiding medication use from others
The Legal Path to Recovery
How the Marchman Act Leads to Treatment
The Florida Marchman Act (Florida Statute Chapter 397) provides a legal mechanism for families to petition the court to mandate addiction assessment and treatment for a loved one who refuses voluntary help.
Petition Filing
Family members, guardians, or three concerned adults file a petition with the court documenting the individual's substance abuse and inability to make rational decisions about treatment.
Court Hearing
A judge reviews the evidence and, if criteria are met, issues an order for involuntary assessment. This typically happens within 24-48 hours of filing.
Assessment Period
The individual is taken to a licensed facility for a professional assessment lasting up to 5 days. Clinicians evaluate their condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
Treatment Order
Based on the assessment, the court can order up to 90 days of involuntary treatment at a licensed facility. This provides the time needed for stabilization and therapeutic intervention.
Continuing Care
After the court-ordered period, treatment continues with the individual's cooperation. Many people who enter treatment involuntarily choose to continue voluntarily once they experience the benefits.
Co-Occurring Disorders
Dual Diagnosis: When Addiction Meets Mental Health
Nearly half of people with substance use disorders also have a co-occurring mental health condition. Effective treatment must address both issues simultaneously.
Common co-occurring conditions include:
- Depression - Often develops alongside or as a result of addiction
- Anxiety disorders - Substances are often used to self-medicate
- PTSD - Trauma and addiction are closely linked
- Bipolar disorder - Increases risk of substance abuse
The Marchman Act addresses substance abuse, while the Baker Act addresses mental health crises. If your loved one has both issues, our team can help determine the best approach. Learn the difference →
Our Treatment Partners
RECO Health Treatment Facilities
We partner with RECO Health, a leading network of accredited addiction treatment facilities in South Florida, offering comprehensive care at every level.
RECO Intensive
Residential & Outpatient Treatment
Comprehensive addiction treatment programs including medical detox, residential treatment, PHP, and IOP. Evidence-based therapies in a supportive environment.
Learn More
RECO Island
Luxury Residential Treatment
Exclusive private island treatment experience combining clinical excellence with resort-style amenities. Ideal for professionals and executives seeking privacy.
Learn More
RECO Health
Full Continuum of Care
Comprehensive healthcare network providing integrated addiction and mental health services. From detox to aftercare, supporting every stage of recovery.
Learn MoreCommon Questions
Addiction Treatment FAQs
How long does addiction treatment take?
Treatment duration varies based on the individual's needs. Medical detox typically takes 3-10 days, while residential treatment usually lasts 30-90 days. The Marchman Act allows courts to order up to 90 days of treatment. Many people continue with outpatient care for months or years after completing initial treatment. Research shows that longer treatment duration is associated with better outcomes.
Will insurance cover addiction treatment?
Most health insurance plans cover addiction treatment under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. Coverage varies by plan and may include detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and outpatient services. Our team can help verify your insurance benefits and explain your coverage. Many facilities also offer payment plans and financing options.
Can someone be forced into treatment through the Marchman Act?
Yes, the Florida Marchman Act allows courts to order involuntary assessment and treatment for individuals who have lost the ability to make rational decisions about their substance use. This is a civil process (not criminal) designed to help people who cannot help themselves. Research shows that people who enter treatment involuntarily have outcomes comparable to those who enter voluntarily.
What happens during medical detox?
Medical detox provides 24/7 medical supervision during the withdrawal process. Doctors and nurses monitor vital signs, manage symptoms, and administer medications to keep patients safe and comfortable. Withdrawal from alcohol and benzodiazepines can be medically dangerous, making professional detox essential. After detox is complete, patients transition to the next level of care.
What evidence-based treatments are used?
Quality treatment programs use evidence-based therapies proven effective for addiction. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), trauma-focused therapies like EMDR, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol addiction, and 12-step facilitation. Treatment is individualized based on each person's needs.
How can family members support recovery?
Family involvement significantly improves treatment outcomes. Most programs offer family therapy sessions, educational workshops about addiction, and guidance on healthy communication and boundaries. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon provide support groups specifically for families. Learning about enabling versus supporting is crucial. Our team can connect you with family resources throughout the treatment process.
Your Loved One Deserves a Chance at Recovery
Addiction is a disease, not a choice. With proper treatment, recovery is possible. If your loved one is refusing help, the Marchman Act provides a legal path to get them the care they need. Don't wait for a tragedy—take action today.
Speak with a compassionate specialist who understands what you're going through.