What does 5150 authorize?

• A. 14 days of intensive treatment.
• B. 72-hour detention for evaluation and treatment.
• C. 7-day observation.
• D. 30-day hold.

Answer: (B)

A 5150 authorizes an involuntary hold for up to 72 hours to evaluate and treat someone who is a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or gravely disabled due to a mental disorder. The purpose is to provide immediate crisis intervention, ensure safety, and begin evaluation and treatment so clinicians can determine what further care is needed. The 72-hour limit is specific to this statute; longer holds exist under separate provisions if criteria continue to be met, but they are not part of the 5150 itself. The other durations listed do not apply to 5150.