Wisconsin § 51.138 - Emergency outpatient treatment for minors.

Full text of Wisconsin Wisconsin Statutes § 51.138 — Emergency outpatient treatment for minors., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 51.138. Emergency outpatient treatment for minors.

51.138(1) (1) In this section, “outpatient mental health treatment” has the meaning given in s. 51.14 (1) . 51.138(2) (2) Subject to sub. (4) , a treatment director of an outpatient mental health treatment provider may provide outpatient mental health treatment to a minor for 30 days without first obtaining informed consent if all of the following criteria are satisfied: 51.138(2)(a) (a) An emergency situation exists, as determined by the treatment director of an outpatient mental health treatment provider, or time and distance requirements preclude obtaining written consent before beginning outpatient mental health treatment, and potential harm will come to the minor or others if treatment is not initiated before written consent is obtained. 51.138(2)(b) (b) A reasonable effort has been made to obtain consent from a parent or guardian of the minor before initiating treatment. 51.138(3) (3) During the 30-day treatment period under sub. (2) , the treatment director of the outpatient mental health treatment provider shall either obtain informed, written consent of a parent or guardian of the minor or, if consent is not obtained, file a petition to initiate a review of outpatient mental health treatment of a minor under s.

Source: official Wisconsin text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin § 51.138

What does Wisconsin Statutes § 51.138 cover?

Section 51.138 ("Emergency outpatient treatment for minors.") is part of the Wisconsin Statutes, the codified statutory law of Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin § 51.138?

A common citation format is "Wisconsin Statutes § 51.138" (Wisconsin). 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 Wisconsin law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Wisconsin official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Wisconsin attorney.

How does Wisconsin § 51.138 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin.