Involuntary Commitment Forms and Processes
This page is for providers, law enforcement and other professionals. If this does not apply to you, visit Involuntary Commitment instead.
An involuntary commitment (IVC) is a legal process in which an individual with a severe mental health or substance use crisis can be committed against their will into a psychiatric or substance use treatment facility.
About the Process
- IVC Process Flow Chart
- IVC Form Fact Sheet (last updated March 13, 2024)
- Revision of North Carolina Laws Pertaining to Involuntary Commitment (PPT)
Commitment Examiner Training
To become a Certified Commitment Examiner, please email Tanya Thacker at IVCCommunication@dhhs.nc.gov.
Primary Forms
- Affidavit and Petition for Involuntary Commitment (AOP-SP-300)
- First Examination for Involuntary Commitment (DMH 5-72-19)
- 24-Hour Facility Exam for Involuntary Commitment (DMH 5-72-19-2)
Additional Forms
- Emergency Certificate - with transfer request (DMH 5-72-20A)
- Emergency Certificate (DMH 5-72-20B)
- Evaluation for Admission/Continued Stay (DMH 5-73-24)
- Request for Hearing (DMH 5-76-24)
- Notice of Change in Commitment Recommendation (DMH 5-79-23A)
- Notice of Change in Commitment Status (DMH 5-79-23B)
- Request to Return Escapee or Conditional Release (DMH 5-82-24)
- Notice of Return of Escapee or Conditional Release (DMH 5-83-24)
Other related court forms are available at www.nccourts.org.
How to submit forms
Session Law 2023-103 requires electronic filing of documents related to the involuntary commitment process. Effective October 13, 2025, all 100 counties have gone live with the electronic filing system commonly known as eCourts. Faxing or submission through secure electronic transmission will no longer be allowed in counties that have gone live with eCourts. In the event of a natural disaster or other emergency that affects eCourts operations, please follow the guidance issued by your county’s courthouse officials concerning filing paperwork.
Register for a Firm Account to gain access to eFile North Carolina. Individual practitioners would also register for a Firm Account. For larger organizations, please create administrators for your site.
For more information and training, visit eCourts.