How does a parent petition the Juvenile Court for involuntary commitment of a juvenile for mental health services?
A petition for the involuntary commitment of a minor may be filed with the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court serving the jurisdiction in which the minor is located. The petition shall include the name and address of the petitioner and the minor and shall set forth in specific terms why the petitioner believes the minor meets the criteria for involuntary commitment. I do not believe that my child needs to be involuntarily committed for mental health treatment. Does the Juvenile Court have jurisdiction to order local agencies to provide mental health treatment services for my child? Under Virginia Code section 16.1-278, A Juvenile Court judge may order, after notice and opportunity to be heard, any state, county or municipal officer or employee or any governmental agency or other governmental institution to render only such information, assistance, services and cooperation as may be provided for by state or federal law or an ordinance of any city, county or town. The request
