District Of Columbia § 21-591 - Offenses and penalties.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 21-591 — Offenses and penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-591. Offenses and penalties.
21-591Whoever:
without probable cause for believing a person to be mentally ill:
causes or conspires with or assists another person to cause the hospitalization, under this chapter, of the person first referred to; or
executes a petition, application, or certificate pursuant to this chapter, by which he secures or attempts to secure the apprehension, hospitalization, detention, or restraint of the person first referred to;
causes or conspires with or assists another person to cause the denial to a person of a right accorded to him by this chapter; or
being a physician, psychiatrist or qualified psychologist, knowingly makes a false certificate or application pursuant to this chapter as to the mental condition of a person —
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 21-591
What does D.C. Code § 21-591 cover?
Section 21-591 ("Offenses and penalties.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 21-591?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 21-591" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 21-591 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.