What can I do if someone has been wrongfully admitted into a Psycho Ward? (New York: lawyer)

[Reiko17]

My Gf's little cousin was recently admitted into the Psycho Ward completely out of nowhere and the parents are refusing to let anyone see her. We had actually just the week before taken the cousin out to a movie and she was fine. We try to spend a lot of time with her as she is VERY sheltered and rarely gets out. She is 17 and turns 18 in just four months... I find it very suspicious that out of nowhere like this her parents would go to such lengths to get her admitted and refuse any visits when once she turns 18 she gets a big trust fund from her deceased father... We fear they're trying to gain control of the funds. Is there anything we can do?

[cheese9988]

I would contact a lawyer.

[sweetpotater58]

Ditto-a lawyer and the local social services

[Huckleberry3911948]

Originally Posted by sweetpotater58

Ditto-a lawyer and the local social services

she is no longer a minor but i agree yes an attorney.

[Reiko17]

Are there any lawyers that might possibly give a free orientation?

[cheese9988]

I would find someone who could give a good recommendation, then call the office and see what the fees are. Remember though, you sometimes get what you pay for. Try could even try the yellow pages, search google and see what the reviews are.

[Viralmd]

First of all, this girl is a minor. You have no legal say in her hospitalization, but her parents do. Her parents have control at this point unless she meets New York criteria that define an emancipated minor: New York Emancipation of Minor Law Law Summary and Law Digest

Just as a point of information, in New York State, for someone to be committed against his/her will, there needs to be something called a 2 Physician Certificate. That means that two independent doctors certify that this patient is a danger to herself or others and needs hospitalization.

[pbinnyc]

"Just as a point of information, in New York State, for someone to be committed against his/her will, there needs to be something called a 2 Physician Certificate. That means that two independent doctors certify that this patient is a danger to herself or others and needs hospitalization."
Unless, i think, a social worker or probation officer has her declared a "PINS" (person in need of supervision.) find out her exact status, then call the local legal aid society, they may be able to offer advice over the phone. Best of luck,
PB