Enrichment Materials

Involuntary Commitment | Advanced Resources

Landmark Cases and Statutes

O'Connor v. Donaldson (1975)

Established that states cannot confine nondangerous mentally ill patients who can survive safely in freedom.

Addington v. Texas (1979)

Established "clear and convincing" evidence standard for civil commitment.

Kendra's Law (NY) / Laura's Law (CA)

Assisted Outpatient Treatment legislation enabling court-ordered community treatment.

Risk Assessment Tools

ToolPurposeResource
Violence Risk Appraisal Guide (VRAG)Violence risk predictionManual
HCR-20Violence risk assessmentManual
SAD PERSONSSuicide risk screeningGuide