Civil commitment is a legal process through which individuals with mental health issues can be involuntarily hospitalized or treated. This typically occurs when a person poses a danger to themselves or others, or is unable to care for themselves due to their mental condition. The process usually involves a court hearing where evidence is presented to determine the necessity of commitment. The laws governing civil commitment vary by state, but they generally require a mental health evaluation and a legal standard of proof. This process aims to balance the rights of individuals with the need to protect public safety and ensure appropriate treatment for those in crisis.