Harris County has 5 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.
The Harris County Attorney's Office represents the State in these cases and publishes a guide that covers both court-ordered mental health care and court-ordered chemical dependency care.
Harris County is one of the few Texas counties that publishes chemical dependency filing information alongside its mental health materials, including a separate application for chemical dependency.
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 Harris County residents, that's Harris 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 Harris County
Harris County is served by The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, the county's local mental health authority. Its 24-hour crisis line is 866-970-4770. Anyone in Texas can also call or text 988. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Detox and treatment near Harris 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.
Into Action Recovery Centers – Residential Services
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisPositive Recovery LLC
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisWest Oaks Hospital LP
Hospital / inpatientMedical detoxDual diagnosisHarris Center for MH/IDD – South Loop SUD Recovery Services
Hospital / inpatientMedical detoxBriarwood Alcohol and Drug Detox - Houston, TX
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxMatthew's Hope Detox and Recovery Program
Residential / inpatientMedical detoxA specialist can help you think through voluntary treatment and next steps. Free and confidential, 24/7.
Call (832) 583-1066County sources
- https://www.cclerk.hctx.net/Forms/Uploads/ProbateMentalHealthCourt/HCPC%20Warrant%20and%20OPC%20Paperwork.pdf
- https://probate.harriscountytx.gov/Probate-Court-No-3/Mental-Health-Division
- https://probate.harriscountytx.gov/Probate-Court-No-3/Mental-Health-Procedure-and-Resources
- https://cclerk.hctx.net/Probate.aspx
See the court-ordered treatment guide and treatment in Harris 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 Harris County?
Start with the Harris County Clerk's probate mental health office at 2800 S. MacGregor Way in Houston, where applications are signed in person before a deputy clerk. 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.