Experienced attorney Lloyd Sokolow earned a dual JD/PhD in psychology and law from the University of Buffalo. Leveraging his background in psychology and the treatment of substance use disorders, Lloyd Sokolow specializes in practice areas such as DUI convictions and other drug-related charges. As the principal of a Florida-based law firm, he is knowledgeable in state-specific statutes, such as the Marchman Act.
The Marchman Act was passed in 1993 and enables family members to petition for court-ordered addiction treatment on behalf of their loved ones. The person in question doesn’t need to have committed a crime. A Marchman petition may be filed if the person has demonstrated that they are a danger to themselves or others and do not have the ability to make sound decisions.
Parents and guardians may file on behalf of minors, while relatives, spouses, or people with direct knowledge of a person’s addiction may petition for someone above the age of 18. Once the petition is filed, it will be analyzed by a judge, who may reject it or order action. If the petition is approved, the person indicated on the petition may be assessed and placed in an involuntary rehabilitation program.
