What steps must be taken to obtain an ex parte order?
A person who has personal knowledge of the behavior of the individual, should give sworn testimony. The individual believed to be suffering from mental illness should be in Leon County. The petitioner(s) must have observed the behavior and must have talked to the individual about obtaining a voluntary examination within a few days. The Clerk’s Office will assist with the necessary paperwork. Because paperwork has to be processed, the petitioners should visit the Clerk’s Office by 3:30 p.m. The petitioners should bring a valid photo identification of themselves and should be prepared to provide a specific address for the individual.