The proposed bill would update current statutes related to the judicial review process for individuals receiving court-ordered mental health treatment. It introduces new provisions allowing patients or their representatives to request a review of the necessity for continued treatment, with specific requirements for submission, including a prescribed form and a timeline for the medical director to deliver the request and a current psychiatric report to the court within seven business days. The bill also removes the existing process for requesting a patient's release from court-ordered treatment, streamlining the review process while ensuring patients' rights are upheld. Additionally, the bill enhances patient rights by ensuring they are informed of their right to consult with an attorney at the time of the request and requiring the court to appoint an attorney if the patient is unrepresented. It establishes a timeline for the court to review requests within five judicial days and allows hearings to be held within 15 calendar days. The bill also modifies the notification process for guardians and attorneys regarding the placement of wards, replacing "one-time" with "onetime" for anticipated inpatient treatment, and mandates that the medical director notify guardians of judicial review requests. Overall, these updates aim to clarify the judicial review process and enhance the rights of patients in mental health cases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 14-5312.01, 36-546, 36-537, 14-5303, 14-5315
House Engrossed Version: 14-5312.01, 36-546, 36-537, 14-5303, 14-5315
Senate Engrossed Version: 14-5312.01, 36-546, 36-537, 14-5303, 14-5315
Chaptered Version: 14-5312.01, 36-546, 36-537, 14-5303, 14-5315