Evidence Code §1024 — Dangerous Patient Exception

Type: California Evidence Code

Summary

There is no §1014 privilege if the psychotherapist has reasonable cause to believe that the patient is in such mental or emotional condition as to be dangerous to himself, herself, or to the person or property of another, and that disclosure of the communication is necessary to prevent the threatened danger.

When to use

Relevant to any analysis of disclosures made by Savannah Gracey, LCSW in connection with the 03/24/2026 hold (where dangerousness was the threshold finding) and to any subsequent disclosures by treating professionals that touch on Ella’s safety plan. Also implicated in scope-of-disclosure analysis if Mending Matters or any other treating provider produced records on a danger-to-self basis under §1024.

Section text (verbatim)

There is no privilege under this article if the psychotherapist has reasonable cause to believe that the patient is in such mental or emotional condition as to be dangerous to himself or to the person or property of another and that disclosure of the communication is necessary to prevent the threatened danger.

Linked exhibits

Transclude of Exhibits-by-Statute.base