Under a 5150 hold, the selected period for evaluation and treatment is up to how many hours?

• A. Up to 72 hours
• B. Up to 24 hours
• C. Up to 48 hours
• D. Up to 96 hours

Answer: (A)

The time frame being tested is the initial involuntary hold period for evaluation and treatment, which is 72 hours. Under California law, a person can be held on a 5150 for up to 72 hours to allow mental health professionals to assess safety, determine the need for further treatment, and initiate any necessary care. The clock starts when the person is taken into custody and placed on the hold. If, after that period, they no longer meet criteria, they can be released; if they still need more care, a separate process (a 14-day extension under a different provision) can be pursued, but the 5150 period itself is limited to 72 hours.