What is the meaning of Section 12?

Asked by: Remington Mante DDS  |  Last update: April 27, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (31 votes)

"Section 12" refers to different laws depending on the jurisdiction, most commonly to Massachusetts' Chapter 123, Section 12 (mental health holds/restraints, often called "pink paper"), Canada's Charter Section 12 (cruel and unusual punishment), or Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12 (pleadings and pretrial motions) in US law. It can also refer to California's Constitutional right to bail or Social Security Administration guidelines for mental disorders (SSA Blue Book 12.00), highlighting its context-dependent meaning.

How long does a section 12 last in MA?

Section 12(a) allows for an individual to be brought against his or her will to such a hospital for evaluation. Section 12(b) allows for an individual to be admitted to a psychiatric unit for up to three business days against the individual's will or without the individual's consent.

What does Section 12 cover?

Section 12. SEC. 12. (c) Felony offenses when the facts are evident or the presumption great and the court finds based on clear and convincing evidence that the person has threatened another with great bodily harm and that there is a substantial likelihood that the person would carry out the threat if released.

What does section 12 mean in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, "Section 12" most commonly refers to M.G.L. Chapter 123, Section 12, a law allowing for the emergency, involuntary restraint and transportation of individuals to a mental health facility for up to 72 hours if they pose a likelihood of serious harm to themselves or others due to mental illness, initiated by specific professionals or a court. It's often called being "pink papered" due to the color of the application form, and it enables temporary psychiatric evaluation and potential commitment when a person cannot consent.
 

Who can section 12 someone in Massachusetts?

Physicians and certain licensed mental health professionals can initiate emergency mental health commitments, called Section 12.

PAANO PAG NA INQUEST, PAANO MAKALAYA ANG SUSPECTS

17 related questions found

What does it mean to be Section 12 approved?

Section 12 approved doctors are those approved by the Secretary of State under section 12(2) Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA), where they are described 'as having special experience in the diagnosis or treatment of mental disorder'.

What is Section 12 of the limitation?

12. Exclusion of time in legal proceedings.—(1) In computing the period of limitation for any suit, appeal or application, the day from which such period is to be reckoned, shall be excluded.

What does section 12 state?

12. Freedom and security of the person. e. not to be treated or punished in a cruel, inhuman or degrading way.

What is local rule 12?

Local Rule 12 of the Court of Appeal First Appellate District requires all attorneys to use the Court's electronic filing system (EFS) to submit documents. Self-represented litigants may also use the EFS system, but are not required to do so.

What to do if someone is mentally unstable and won't get help?

Helping someone with mental illness who resists help involves showing unconditional support, listening without judgment, validating their feelings, and gently encouraging small steps, focusing on building trust rather than forcing treatment; use "I" statements to express concern and ask how you can help, respecting their autonomy while being prepared for a crisis if they're a danger to themselves or others, notes this Mental Health America article and this Psychiatry.org article. 

What is the new eviction law in Massachusetts?

"On May 5, 2025 a new law goes into effect that allows tenants in Massachusetts to 'seal' their eviction record." Find out about eligibility and how to file a petition to have your record sealed.

How to avoid Medicaid 5 year lookback in Massachusetts?

Legal Strategies to Avoid Medicaid Look-Back Penalties in Massachusetts

  1. Transferring Assets to a Spouse. ...
  2. Transferring Assets to a Disabled or Blind Child. ...
  3. Transferring a Home. ...
  4. Using Irrevocable Trusts. ...
  5. Spend-Down Assets. ...
  6. Formalizing a Caregiver Agreement (Life Care Agreement) ...
  7. Purchasing a Medicaid-Exempt Annuity.

What's the longest you can stay in a mental hospital?

There's no single longest time; it varies greatly, from days for crisis stabilization (72 hours to a couple of weeks) to months or even years for severe, chronic conditions in long-term facilities, depending on the individual's needs, treatment progress, and legal status (voluntary vs. involuntary). Short-term stays focus on safety, while longer stays address complex needs, often with an eye toward transitioning to less restrictive care.
 

What is the difference between section 12 and section 35 in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, Section 35 allows for long-term involuntary treatment for alcohol or substance use disorders. If someone is a risk to themselves or others due to a mental illness and they are unwilling or unable to seek help voluntarily, Section 12 may be more appropriate.

How do I put someone in the mental hospital?

If you think the individual needs help for their mental health and there are no other options, you can commit them involuntarily. You can call emergency services if you feel someone is in danger to themselves or others. You can file a petition in your state to start the involuntary commitment process if you have to.

What is meant by article 12?

• Article 12 defines the term 'State' as used in. different Articles of Part III of the Constitution. It says that unless the context otherwise requires the term 'State' includes the following :- a. ) The Government and Parliament of India, i.e., Executive and Legislature of the Union.

What are the 6 types of human rights?

Perhaps the most obvious, or most mentioned, human rights are the right to life, the right to freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly, freedom of association and freedom of thought.

What are the rights of an 18 year old?

At age 18, you become a “legal adult.” This means you have new rights like being able to vote, get married, and much more. But, you also need to think about where you will live, who you will live with, how you will spend your time, and if you will need support.

What is Section 12 of the Code of Civil Procedure?

Section 12 of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) generally bars a plaintiff from bringing a new suit if they are already prevented from doing so by procedural rules, preventing multiple litigation on the same cause of action. A key sub-section, Section 12(2) CPC, specifically allows a party to challenge a final judgment, decree, or order obtained through fraud, misrepresentation, or lack of jurisdiction by filing an application in the same court, rather than a separate lawsuit, aiming for efficiency and finality. 

What is section 12 of the constitution?

e. not to be treated or punished in a cruel, inhuman or degrading way.

What is the 12 year limitation period?

As per the schedule prescribing limitation, there is a limitation of 3 years for filing Suits relating to recovery of money and suits under a contract. There is a limitation period of 12 years for suit relating to possession of immovable property and 1 year for suits arising out of torts.

What to do with a mentally ill family member who refuses treatment?

When a mentally ill family member refuses treatment, focus on listening empathetically, showing unconditional love, educating yourself, and setting boundaries while looking for signs of crisis, which may require emergency intervention like calling 988 or 911 if there's immediate danger. You can also seek guidance from a therapist for yourself and consider legal options like guardianship as a last resort in severe cases, but collaboration is best.
 

What symptoms will get you admitted to the mental hospital?

A person may be institutionalized for severe mental health symptoms that pose an immediate risk, including suicidal or homicidal thoughts/actions, psychosis (hallucinations/delusions), severe inability to care for themselves (gravely disabled), or extreme mood disturbances (mania/severe depression) that disrupt functioning, often when outpatient treatment fails or the danger is imminent. The key criteria usually involve a danger to self or others, or grave disability due to mental illness. 

What are the most serious mental health conditions?

Common diagnoses associated with SMI include bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, personality disorder and major depressive disorder.