Michigan Mental Health Evaluation Transport Orders: A Simple Guide for Families

When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, it can be hard to know what to do. Michigan law provides a process to help a person get evaluated when they may not be able to seek help on their own. One tool in that process is a mental health transport order.

This guide explains what a transport order is, why it’s used, and what you can expect.

What Is a Transport Order?

A transport order is a court order that allows law enforcement or a trained transport officer to take a person to a hospital or pre‑screening center for a mental health evaluation.

It is not an arrest. It is not a criminal process. It is a safety measure to help someone get medical care.

When Is a Transport Order Used?

A judge may issue a transport order when:

• A petition for mental health treatment has been filed

• The person will not go to an evaluation on their own

• The person cannot be located or is avoiding contact

• There are serious concerns about the person’s safety or well‑being

The goal is to make sure the person is evaluated quickly and safely.

How Does the Process Start?

1. A petition is filed with the probate court. Anyone who has seen the concerning behavior can file — family, friends, professionals, or law enforcement.

2. The petition must include personally observed, recent, specific examples of what the person has said or done that indicate they may need help.

3. The judge reviews the petition, often the same day.

4. If the judge believes an evaluation is needed and the person won’t go voluntarily, they may sign a transport order.

   
   

What Happens During Transport?

• A police officer or certified transport officer will go to the person.

• They will explain that the court has ordered a mental health evaluation.

• The person is taken to a hospital or pre‑screening unit.

• The transport is done as safely and respectfully as possible.

This is not a criminal matter. The person is not being charged with anything.

What Happens at the Hospital?

Once the person arrives:

• A medical clearance and then mental health professional evaluates them

• The evaluator decides whether the person needs inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, or should be released

• If the evaluator does not believe hospitalization is needed, the person must be released.

Why Are Transport Orders Important?

Transport orders help:

• Keep the person safe

• Ensure they receive a timely evaluation

• Reduce risk to the person and others

• Connect the person to treatment when they cannot seek it themselves

For many families, this step leads to stabilization and the beginning of recovery.

Tips for Families

• Write down specific behaviors, dates, and statements

• Provide complete contact information for the court

• Stay available by phone on the day you file

• Remember: the goal is care, not punishment

  

  
  

Disclaimer

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please call my office to schedule a consultation.