Dallas County has 3 statutory probate courts. Under Chapter 462, these cases may be heard by the county court, a county court at law with probate jurisdiction or a statutory probate court.
Dallas County's application rules require the applicant to be an adult with firsthand knowledge who describes specific recent acts, attempts or threats.
Dallas County's application materials include a checkbox for chemical dependence.
How the process works
- Who can file: any adult, or the county or district attorney. Private applicants must attach a physician's certificate.
- Where: the county where the person lives, is found or is already receiving court-ordered or emergency treatment; for most Dallas County residents, that's Dallas County.
- Hearing: set within 14 days and held by day 30; two physician certificates must be on file.
- Rights: an appointed attorney if the person has none, and a jury unless waived in writing.
- Order: at least 30 and no more than 90 days of treatment at an HHSC-approved facility, or outpatient treatment if the court allows.
Read the full step-by-step filing guide.
Crisis help in Dallas County
Dallas County is served by North Texas Behavioral Health Authority, the county's local mental health authority. Its 24-hour crisis line is 866-260-8000. Anyone in Texas can also call or text 988. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Detox and treatment near Dallas County
Courts commit people only to approved facilities, and voluntary admission is often faster. Many families line up a program while they prepare an application.
Department of Veteran Affairs Hospital
Hospital / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisMedical City Green Oaks Hospital
Hospital / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisNexus Recovery Center Inc
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisCEND Detox - Inpatient Drug Rehab & Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisHomeward Bound Inc – Dallas Residential Treatment Center
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisTurtleridge Detox Garland
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisA specialist can help you think through voluntary treatment and next steps. Free and confidential, 24/7.
Call (832) 583-1066County sources
- https://www.dallascounty.org/government/courts/probate/mental-health.php
- https://dallascounty.org/government/county-clerk/probate-courts/faqs.php
- https://www.dallascounty.org/Assets/uploads/docs/courts/probate/mental-health/Administrative-Order-2023-001-Amended.pdf
- https://www.dallascounty.org/Assets/uploads/docs/jpcourts/3-1/mental-illness/MI-CD-Filing-Forms-20260423.pdf
See the court-ordered treatment guide and treatment in Dallas County. This page is general information, not legal advice. Local procedures change; confirm with the county before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I file for court-ordered rehab in Dallas County?
Start with the Mental Illness Court office in the George Allen Courts Building, 600 Commerce St. in Dallas, by appointment; Justice of the Peace offices also take applications. Applications are filed with the county clerk, with a physician's certificate attached.
How long does court-ordered treatment last in Texas?
At least 30 days and no more than 90 days for applications filed on or after September 1, 2025, with early discharge possible if the person no longer meets the criteria.
Can a family member file without a doctor's certificate?
No. Under Section 462.062, only a county or district attorney can file without a physician's certificate of medical examination for chemical dependency.