How do I start the AOT process?

Once you have confirmed that AOT is an appropriate intervention for your situation, you can file a petition for treatment. Petitions for mental health treatment are filed in your local probate court, and mental health treatment is coordinated by your local community mental health (CMH) agency. AOT processes and programs can vary from county to county, so it is a good idea to connect with your local CMH and your local probate court to familiarize yourself with how AOT petitions are filed and orders are carried out in your local community.

Filing the petition

Petitions for mental health treatment are filed in your county probate court, the court that handles wills, administers estates and trusts, appoints guardians and conservators, and orders treatment for mentally ill and developmentally disabled persons.

When completing court documents, it is important to fill out the forms as completely and correctly as possible. 

  • Locate your county's probate court

    Petitions for mental health treatment are filed in your county probate court, the court that handles wills, administers estates and trusts, appoints guardians and conservators, and orders treatment for mentally ill and developmentally disabled persons.

    Your local probate court may require specific forms or cover sheets. Locate your local probate court through the Michigan Trial Court Directory below or by searching online. Then, contact them or visit their website to learn about the filing process in your area, their procedure for rejecting incomplete forms, and for support in filing.

  • Locate your community mental health agency

    Learn more about your community mental health agency on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) website or from the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan directory

An initial order can be extended through Probate Court if the person still meets the legal requirements of “a person requiring treatment.” This can be accomplished by turning in a Petition for Second or Continuing Mental Health Treatment Order (PCM 218 or PCM 218a) along with a Report on Examination and Clinical Certificate (PCM 208) at least 14 days before the current order expires.  

Common forms/petitions used in mental health probate proceedings 

In addition to forms required by your local probate court, the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) requires paperwork based on where you are in the AOT process (initial petition, request for extension, etc.) Visit the SCAO website to learn more about all mental health forms.


The AOT process

This interactive process map is intended to show different routes for obtaining an AOT order, including deferralwaiver, and hearing. Use the - and + buttons in the bottom corner to zoom in and out, and use your mouse to navigate the process map.

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