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Speak Up! - View Question #588 |
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Question: Can I get arrested for attempting to commit suicide?
Answer: Because Arizona Law (ARS §13-1105) defines murder as 'causing the death of another person,' suicide technically is not murder. Thus, suicide is not a crime and you cannot be arrested for attempting suicide. Note, however, that a pregnant woman who kills herself can be charged with infanticide or child abuse because killing herself will harm, if not kill, the child. For more information on a case like this in Arizona See, State v. DePiano, 187 Ariz. 27 (1996).
Although a person cannot be criminally charged for attempted suicide, a person can be ordered to undergo treatment at the state mental hospital for doing so. The civil commitment statute permits a court-ordered evaluation of any person who is a 'danger to themselves.' (ARS §36-520(A)). 'Danger to self' is defined as 'behavior which, . . . constitutes a danger of inflicting serious physical harm upon oneself, including attempted suicide or the serious threat thereof.' (ARS §13-501(5)(a)). So if the court is satisfied that someone who commits suicide needs professional treatment, that person can be committed to the state mental hospital or ordered to undergo outpatient treatment.
Anyone over age 18 who feels that they are suffering a mental ailment that is causing them to consider suicide can and should petition the state for an evaluation and appropriate treatment. (ARS §36-518(A)). A minor may seek such treatment with the consent of a parent, guardian or custodian. (ARS §36-518(C)).
If you are in immediate need of someone to talk with, call the National Crisis/Suicide Hotline at 1(800)999-9999. If you are in immediate danger, call 911!
Other Suicide and crisis numbers:
National Hope Line Network -- 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
Alternative Behavioral Services -- (602) 222-9444 -- 1-800-631-1314
Teen Lifeline Peer Counseling & Crisis Line -- (602) 248-TEEN -- (602) 248-8336 -- 1-800-248-TEEN -- 1-800-248
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