Watching someone you love struggle with addiction can leave you feeling helpless. You may have tried talking to them, offering support, or encouraging treatment, only to have your efforts turned away.
It’s natural to wonder whether there’s a way to get them help, even if they refuse. In Massachusetts, the answer is sometimes yes.
Under Section 35, a court can order someone into treatment for an alcohol or substance use disorder under very specific circumstances. However, this legal process is intended to be a last resort, not the first step.
Understanding how Section 35 works, and what other options may be available, can help you make informed decisions during an incredibly difficult time.
What Is Section 35?
Section 35 is a Massachusetts law that allows certain people to ask the court to order someone into treatment for an alcohol or substance use disorder.
Unlike voluntary rehab, where someone chooses to seek help, Section 35 involves a legal process.
A judge must determine whether the person meets specific legal requirements before ordering involuntary treatment. Families cannot simply admit someone to rehab against their will without going through the court system.
While Section 35 can be an important option in some situations, Massachusetts officials emphasize that voluntary treatment is the preferred approach whenever possible.
When Can Someone Be Forced to Go to Rehab in Massachusetts?
Section 35 doesn’t apply simply because someone has an addiction or refuses treatment.
Before a judge can order involuntary treatment, there must be clear and convincing evidence that:
- The person has an alcohol or substance use disorder.
- Their substance use creates a likelihood of serious harm to themselves or others.
Under Massachusetts law, “serious harm” may include situations where:
- Someone is at substantial risk of hurting themselves or another person
- Where their substance use has affected their judgment so severely that they can no longer safely care for themselves
Because these decisions can significantly affect a person’s rights and safety, the court carefully reviews the evidence before issuing an order.
Who Can File a Section 35 Petition?
Only certain people are allowed to ask the court to begin the Section 35 process.
Qualified petitioners include:
- A spouse
- A blood relative
- A legal guardian
- A physician
- A police officer
- A court official
The petition is filed in a Massachusetts District or Juvenile Court, where a judge reviews the information and determines whether a hearing should take place.
Is Section 35 the Best Option for Getting Someone Into Rehab?
In many cases, no.
Massachusetts specifically describes involuntary commitment as a last option when other approaches are no longer appropriate.
If someone is willing to seek treatment voluntarily, that is generally the better path. People who choose to enter addiction treatment often feel more invested in the recovery process and may be more willing to participate in therapy and ongoing care.
Sometimes, simply talking openly about Section 35 encourages someone to accept help before court involvement becomes necessary. While every situation is different, having honest conversations early may open the door to voluntary treatment.
Other Options for Massachusetts Residents Who Need Addiction Treatment
If your loved one isn’t in immediate danger but isn’t ready to seek help, there are still steps you can take.
You might consider:
- Having a calm, honest conversation about your concerns
- Encouraging them to schedule a confidential assessment
- Working with an intervention professional if communication has become difficult
- Learning more about addiction and recovery as a family
- Reaching out to a treatment center to discuss your options
You don’t have to wait until a crisis happens before asking for guidance. Even if your loved one isn’t ready for treatment today, you can begin gathering information and building a plan for when they are.
Voluntary Addiction Treatment at Blue Hills Recovery
Choosing treatment voluntarily allows you to take an active role in your recovery while receiving compassionate, evidence-based care.
At Blue Hills Recovery, we provide personalized addiction treatment designed to meet you where you are.
Depending on your needs, your addiction treatment plan may include:
- Day treatment
- Evening treatment
- Detoxification support coordination
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
Our goal is to help you understand the underlying causes of addiction, build healthier coping skills, and create a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
Helping You Find Better Options for Helping a Loved One
When someone you love is struggling with addiction, it’s easy to feel like you’ve run out of options. Whether you’re considering Section 35 or hoping to encourage voluntary treatment, support is available.
At Blue Hills Recovery, in Worcester, we’re here to answer your questions, explain your treatment options, and help you determine the next best step. Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to face this journey alone.
FAQs – Can You Force Someone Into Rehab in Massachusetts?
If a judge orders a Section 35 commitment, the commitment may last up to 90 days. The actual length depends on the person’s clinical needs and whether they continue meeting the legal criteria for involuntary commitment.
Yes. Section 35 applies to both alcohol use disorders and substance use disorders when the legal criteria for involuntary commitment are met.
Yes. If someone no longer meets the legal criteria for involuntary commitment but still needs care, they may choose to continue treatment voluntarily if it’s clinically appropriate.
You can still take the first step by learning about your options, speaking with an addiction treatment professional, or encouraging your loved one to complete a confidential assessment.
Even if they’re not ready today, having a plan can make it easier to act when they’re ready for help.
Sources
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. Section 35. Retrieved from: https://www.mass.gov/section-35. Accessed on August 21, 2026.
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. Section 35: The Process and Criteria. Retrieved from: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/section-35-the-process-and-criteria. Accessed on August 21, 2026.