Hi Gather Friends:
I am working on my next novel. I have a question.
I forgot how the law works in the case of a patient who is a suspect. Does the doctor have to give up the chart of a patient if the law feels that that patient is holding someone captive?
Would the police need a court order? How does that work?
Thank you so much in advance.
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Comments: 29
But, I don't remember the procedure when the cops are involved. I am not a Psychologist, obviously! LOL. But, I have worked with the severely mentally ill, and I have committed patients who were danger to self/others once the Psychiatrist at the hospital deemed there was enough evidence. I remember there was paperwork involved. Hmmm... I am so stuck! LOL! Thanks Lisa . Thanks Don for sending me a msg. also. Don might be our man on this case. We'll see!
I just thought of something. Maybe there is a writer on here who knows for certain?
I bet there is a legal writer out here. Where are you?????? Come out, Come out, wherever you are! Maybe we can make a deal?????? :).
I ordered a book from Writers' Digest on the techniques that the police must take. Hopefully, I will find the answer there. If not, I am going to "google" for well-known published writers. Maybe one of them will take some sympathy! I hate to bother these people-you know? It would absolutely be the last resort.
I will share what I find out in the book when it comes. Speaking of a good book for a guideline, I have one to share with you guys. I just pulled it out again last night after a lengthy amount of time.
The title is "How I Write" by Janet Evanovich. I consulted this book, and the one by Stephen King---the memoir. And now, I am consulting several mystery books. Thanks Sue!
Serpentes-Wow! I wonder if they will answer your question! LOL. Thank you so much!
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I wonder how they protect themselves from such depression? Now, we're on a different subject matter. LOL. No worries. It's all good!
Sharon, I finally have the answer!!! LOL!! I had to ask in person!
So here's how it works...
The law does not need a court order if someone is suspected of committing a crime that could intentionally hurt another person. In fact, according to a California ruling (this is federal law - I'm from Louisiana), the psychologist or psychiatrist should report to the law if someone says that they are holding someone captive first, before it even gets to the point of the law having to have made an investigation.
So there it is!
Serpentes came to the rescue!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much Serpentes.