In Florida, there is a law known as the Baker Act, which permits any police officer or other authority figure to transport someone to a mental hospital if they believe they have a mental illness.
So, if you’re in Florida and you lose your cool in a public place, causing you to burst into anger, you could be arrested by a cop under the Baker Act law, even if you were only upset at the moment. There are also instances where a police officer exploits the Baker Act provision and detains you against your will, even if you are not mentally ill.
This was made possible by the Baker Act, which authorizes any police officer to transport a person suspected of causing damage to others to a mental facility for 78 hours without their consent. If you are ever subjected to baker act abuse, you should consider hiring a baker act lawyer to defend you and help you prove you do not have a mental illness.
However, because of their mental illnesses, some people baker acted of their own volition. They do this to avoid causing harm to individuals around them and to keep their workplace running smoothly. However, many, particularly workers, are scared to Baker Act themselves, even if they have mental disorders, for fear of being judged by their coworkers or get fired.
Allow someone you know to read this article if they have this in mind. Then, we’ll discuss if it’s true that getting Baker Acted may get you fired or not.
Can you get fired for being Baker Acted?
No, that is not the case. In fact, it is illegal for a corporation to terminate you if your handicap or mental condition is the reason for your termination. Likewise, discriminating against a Baker Acted individual because of their mental health issues is likewise a criminal offense.
If your manager refuses your promotion, pushes you to take longer breaks, or threatens to fire you after you return from being Baker Acted, you can denounce it to the authorities as a violation of the ADA and work ethics. You will, however, need a qualified lawyer who can defend ADA employment claims and provide evidence of your stay in the facility.
If you were not fired, but your manager no longer assigns you responsibilities due to your illness, you can potentially file a discrimination complaint. Discrimination occurs when your manager doubts your ability to complete a task due to your mental condition without allowing you to prove yourself. However, it would be best if you slowly work to gain your colleagues’ trust.
You can also use your legal right to a reasonable accommodation to continue working despite your mental health issues. A reasonable accommodation is not difficult to obtain because it only requires minor alterations in your regular job routine.
You will be provided additional breaks instead of the 15-minute break if you so desire. Your company could also change your office to a more comfortable working environment to work well.
Always keep in mind that having a mental illness is nothing to be embarrassed about, and you have every right to seek treatment at a mental facility. Also, don’t be frightened of discrimination. There are laws implemented to protect you against it, especially if it occurs at work.
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