Casey's Law

Casey’s Law works. It does require multiple steps to move forward in getting your loved one the help they need and deserve. Do not be discouraged. There is help and resources available. The basic steps required are as follows:

• Prepare Petition, Form 700A, providing careful attention to questions #3, 4, and 5.
  • For Question #3, provide as much history and evidence as possible, attaching extra pages as needed.
  • For Question #4, provide examples of behavior or driving under the influence, but always include a note that each time they use they are a danger to themselves.
  • For Question #5, only check one box.
• Petitioner is required to schedule appointments with two Qualified Health Professionals (QHPs), one must be a physician. A list of what professions qualify as a QHP is included with the Evaluation Form 703A. Appointment dates, times, and provider information should be attached to the petition when filed.
• File the Petition, Form 700A, with the Circuit Court Clerk. DO NOT SIGN! Signature must be witnessed and notarized by the Clerk. Petitioner should review that county’s procedures with the Clerk. Petitioner should retain a copy of the completed Form 700A, for their own reference and to provide a copy to each of the evaluators. There is no fee to file.
• Upon review and approval from the Judge, the Clerk will complete a summons containing the names and addresses of the Qualified Health Professionals (evaluators) along with the dates/times and scheduled appointments.
• Sheriff will then serve the Respondent with the summons. Some counties do charge a fee for the summons to be served. Once the Respondent is served, their failure to cooperate and attend evaluations, court date, or treatment program could result in contempt of court. This is only intended to incentivize cooperation.
• Petitioner must also attend the evaluation appointment and obtain the completed Certifications/Evaluations. The completed Form 703A must remain in a sealed envelope until opened by the Clerk. The Petitioner is advised to give a copy of the completed Form 700A to the evaluator, providing all the same evidence presented to the court.
• Petitioner must return the completed Certifications/Evaluations to the County Clerk’s office within 24 hours. This is REQUIRED by law. Failure to do so can result in the complete dismissal of the case. Once received by the Clerk, Petitioner is entitled to receive a copy of these evaluations.
• It is the responsibility of the Petitioner (not the court) to secure a treatment program for the Respondent to attend in the event treatment is ordered by the court. This could be outpatient or inpatient treatment, based on the recommendations of the two evaluations. A placement should be available to provide to the court at the final hearing.
• Petitioner and Respondent will be required to attend court on a specified date.
• Once the treatment is ordered by the court for the Respondent, it is the Petitioner’s duty to keep the court informed of any changes in the status of the Respondent.