Outpatient Commitment, Involuntary

Involuntary outpatient civil commitment is a form of civil commitment in which a court orders an individual to receive treatment and related services in a community setting. Nearly all states in the United States permit outpatient civil commitment, though the manner in which it occurs varies among the states. It is also used in other countries. Whether outpatient commitment should be used has been a source of much debate since the 1970s. While it continues to be controversial, the courts that have considered it have upheld its legality. Research to date suggests that it may be effective in some circumstances for some patients when combined with long-term treatment, though the reasons for its effectiveness are not known at this time.