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OREGON STATUTES

Last updated November 2003


Title 35
Chapter 426 – Persons With Mental Illness

(Definitions)

426.005 Definitions for ORS 426.005 to 426.390.

(1) As used in ORS 426.005 to 426.390, unless the context requires otherwise:

(a) "Department" means the Department of Human Services.

(b) "Director of the facility" means a superintendent of a state mental hospital, the chief of psychiatric services in a community hospital or the person in charge of treatment and rehabilitation programs at other treatment facilities.

(c) "Facility" means a state mental hospital, community hospital, residential facility, detoxification center, day treatment facility or such other facility as the department determines suitable, any of which may provide diagnosis and evaluation, medical care, detoxification, social services or rehabilitation for committed mentally ill persons.

(d) "Mentally ill person" means a person who, because of a mental disorder, is one or more of the following:

(A) Dangerous to self or others.

(B) Unable to provide for basic personal needs and is not receiving such care as is necessary for health or safety.

(C) A person who:

(i) Is chronically mentally ill, as defined in ORS 426.495;

(ii) Within the previous three years, has twice been placed in a hospital or approved inpatient facility by the department under ORS 426.060;

(iii) Is exhibiting symptoms or behavior substantially similar to those that preceded and led to one or more of the hospitalizations or inpatient placements referred to in sub-subparagraph (ii) of this subparagraph; and

(iv) Unless treated, will continue, to a reasonable medical probability, to physically or mentally deteriorate so that the person will become a person described under either or both subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph.

(e) "Nonhospital facility" means any facility, other than a hospital, that is approved by the department to provide adequate security, psychiatric, nursing and other services to persons under ORS 426.232 or 426.233.

(f) "Prehearing period of detention" means a period of time calculated from the initiation of custody during which a person may be detained under ORS 426.228, 426.231, 426.232 or 426.233.

(2) Whenever a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, director of the facility, superintendent of a state hospital or administrator of a facility is referred to, the reference includes any designee such person has designated to act on the person’s behalf in the exercise of duties.

(Hospitals)

426.010 State hospitals for mentally ill persons. Except as otherwise ordered by the Department of Human Services pursuant to ORS 179.325, the Oregon State Hospital in Salem, Marion County, and the Eastern Oregon Psychiatric Center in Pendleton, Umatilla County, shall be used as state hospitals for the care and treatment of mentally ill persons who are assigned to the care of such institutions by the department or who have previously been committed to such institutions.

426.020 Superintendents; chief medical officer. The superintendents of the hospitals mentioned in ORS 426.010 shall be persons the Department of Human Services considers qualified to administer the hospital. If the superintendent of any hospital is a physician licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon, the superintendent shall serve as chief medical officer. If the superintendent is not a physician, the assistant director or the designee of the assistant director shall appoint a physician to serve as chief medical officer who shall be in the unclassified service.

426.030 [Amended by 1955 c.651 §5; 1957 c.43 §1; repealed by 1999 c.983 §7]

426.060 Commitment to Department of Human Services; authority of department to direct placement; transfer authority; delegation. (1) Commitments to the Department of Human Services shall be made only by the judge of a circuit court in a county of this state.

(2) The following is a nonexclusive list of powers the department may exercise concerning the placement of persons committed or persons receiving emergency care and treatment under ORS 426.070, 426.228 to 426.235 or 426.237:

(a) In its discretion and for reasons which are satisfactory to the department, the department may direct any court committed person to the facility best able to treat the person. The authority of the department on such matters shall be final.

(b) At any time, for good cause and in the best interest of the mentally ill person, the department may transfer a committed person from one facility to another. When transferring a person under this paragraph, the department shall make the transfer:

(A) If the transfer is from a facility in one class to a facility of the same class, as provided by rule of the department;

(B) If the transfer is from a facility in one class to a facility in a less restrictive class, by following the procedures for trial visits under ORS 426.273; and

(C) If the transfer is from a facility in one class to a facility in a more restrictive class, by following the procedures under ORS 426.275.

(c) At any time, for good cause and in the best interest of the mentally ill person, the department may transfer a person receiving emergency care and treatment under ORS 426.070 or 426.228 to 426.235, or intensive treatment under ORS 426.237, between hospitals and nonhospital facilities approved by the department to provide emergency care or treatment as defined by rule of the department.

(d) Pursuant to its rules, the department may delegate to a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director the responsibility for assignment of mentally ill persons to suitable facilities or transfer between such facilities under conditions which the department may define.

(Commitment Procedure)

426.070 Initiation; notification required; recommendation to court; citation. (1) Any of the following may initiate commitment procedures under this section by giving the notice described under subsection (2) of this section:

(a) Two persons;

(b) The county health officer; or

(c) Any magistrate.

(2) For purposes of subsection (1) of this section, the notice must comply with the following:

(a) It must be in writing under oath;

(b) It must be given to the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or a designee of the director in the county where the allegedly mentally ill person resides;

(c) It must state that a person within the county other than the person giving the notice is a mentally ill person and is in need of treatment, care or custody;

(d) If the commitment proceeding is initiated by two persons under subsection (1)(a) of this section, it may include a request that the court notify the two persons:

(A) Of the issuance or nonissuance of a warrant under this section; or

(B) Of the courts determination under ORS 426.130 (1); and

(e) If the notice contains a request under paragraph (d) of this subsection, it must also include the addresses of the two persons making the request.

(3) Upon receipt of a notice under subsections (1) and (2) of this section or when notified by a circuit court that the court received notice under ORS 426.234, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, or designee of the director, shall:

(a) Immediately notify the judge of the court having jurisdiction for that county under ORS 426.060 of the notification described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section.

(b) Immediately notify the Department of Human Services if commitment is proposed because the person appears to be a mentally ill person, as defined in ORS 426.005 (1)(d)(C). When such notice is received, the department may verify, to the extent known by the department, whether or not the person meets the criteria described in ORS 426.005 (1)(d)(C)(i) and (ii) and so inform the director or designee of the director.

(c) Initiate an investigation under ORS 426.074 to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that the person is in fact a mentally ill person.

(4) Upon completion, a recommendation based upon the investigation report under ORS 426.074 shall be promptly submitted to the court. If the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director determines that probable cause does not exist to believe that a person released from detention under ORS 426.234 (2)(c) or (3)(b) is a mentally ill person, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall not submit a recommendation to the court.

(5) When the court receives notice under subsection (3) of this section:

(a) If the court, following the investigation, concludes that there is probable cause to believe that the person investigated is a mentally ill person, it shall, through the issuance of a citation as provided in ORS 426.090, cause the person to be brought before it at a time and place as it may direct, for a hearing under ORS 426.095 to determine whether the person is mentally ill. The person shall be given the opportunity to appear voluntarily at the hearing unless the person fails to appear or unless the person is detained pursuant to paragraph (b) of this subsection.

(b)(A) The judge may cause the allegedly mentally ill person to be taken into custody pending the investigation or hearing by issuing a warrant of detention under this subsection. A judge may only issue a warrant under this subsection if the court finds that there is probable cause to believe that failure to take the person into custody would pose serious harm or danger to the person or to others.

(B) To cause the custody of a person under this paragraph, the judge must issue a warrant of detention to the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee, the sheriff of the county or designee, directing that person to take the allegedly mentally ill person into custody and produce the person at the time and place stated in the warrant.

(C) At the time the person is taken into custody, the person shall be informed by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, the sheriff or a designee of the following:

(i) The persons rights with regard to representation by or appointment of counsel as described in ORS 426.100; and

(ii) The warning under ORS 426.123.

(D) The court may make any orders for the care and custody of the person prior to the hearing as it considers necessary.

(c) If the notice includes a request under subsection (2)(d)(A) of this section, the court shall notify the two persons of the issuance or nonissuance of a warrant under this subsection.

426.072 Custody; care; responsibilities of treating physician; rules. (1) A hospital or nonhospital facility and a treating physician must comply with the following when an allegedly mentally ill person is placed in custody at the hospital or nonhospital facility:

(a) By a warrant of detention under ORS 426.070;

(b) By a peace officer under ORS 426.228 or other person authorized under ORS 426.233; or

(c) By a physician under ORS 426.232.

(2) In circumstances described under subsection (1) of this section, the hospital or nonhospital facility and treating physician must comply with the following:

(a) The person shall receive the care, custody and treatment required for mental and physical health and safety;

(b) The treating physician shall report any care, custody and treatment to the court as required in ORS 426.075;

(c) All methods of treatment, including the prescription and administration of drugs, shall be the sole responsibility of the treating physician. However, the person shall not be subject to electro-shock therapy or unduly hazardous treatment and shall receive usual and customary treatment in accordance with medical standards in the community;

(d) The treating physician shall be notified immediately of any use of mechanical restraints on the person. Every use of a mechanical restraint and the reasons therefor shall be made a part of the clinical record of the person over the signature of the treating physician; and

(e) The treating physician shall give the person the warning under ORS 426.123 at times the treating physician determines the person will reasonably understand the notice. This paragraph only requires the notice to be given as often as the physician determines is necessary to assure that the person is given an opportunity to be aware of the notice.

(3) The Department of Human Services shall adopt rules necessary to carry out this section, including rules regarding the content of the medical record compiled during the current period of custody.

426.074 Investigation; procedure; content; report. The following is applicable to an investigation initiated by a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, or a designee of the director, as part of commitment procedures under ORS 426.070 and 426.228 to 426.235:

(1) If the allegedly mentally ill person is held in custody before the hearing the investigation shall be completed at least 24 hours before the hearing under ORS 426.095, otherwise the investigation shall comply with the following time schedule:

(a) If the allegedly mentally ill person can be located, the investigator shall contact the person within three judicial days from the date the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or a designee receives a notice under ORS 426.070 alleging that the person is mentally ill.

(b) Within 15 days from the date the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or a designee receives a notice under ORS 426.070 alleging that a person is mentally ill, one of the following shall occur:

(A) The investigation shall be completed and submitted to the court.

(B) An application for extension shall be made to the court under paragraph (c) of this subsection.

(c) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, a designee or the investigator may file for an extension of the time under paragraph (b) of this subsection only if one of the following occurs:

(A) A treatment option less restrictive than involuntary in-patient commitment is actively being pursued.

(B) The allegedly mentally ill person cannot be located.

(d) A court may grant an extension under paragraph (c) of this subsection for a time and upon the terms and conditions the court considers appropriate.

(2) This subsection establishes a nonexclusive list of provisions applicable to the content of the investigation, as follows:

(a) The investigation conducted should, where appropriate, include an interview or examination of the allegedly mentally ill person in the home of the person or other place familiar to the person.

(b) Whether or not the allegedly mentally ill person consents, the investigation should include interviews with any persons that the investigator has probable cause to believe have pertinent information regarding the investigation. If the allegedly mentally ill person objects to the contact with any person, the objection shall be noted in the investigators report.

(c) The investigator shall be allowed access to physicians, nurses or social workers and to medical records compiled during the current involuntary prehearing period of detention to determine probable cause and to develop alternatives to commitment. If commitment is proposed because the person appears to be a mentally ill person as defined in ORS 426.005 (1)(d)(C), the investigator shall be allowed access to medical records necessary to verify the existence of criteria described in ORS 426.005 (1)(d)(C). The investigator shall include pertinent parts of the medical record in the investigation report. Records and communications described in this paragraph and communications related thereto are not privileged under ORS 40.230, 40.235, 40.240 or 40.250.

(3) A copy of the investigation report shall be provided as soon as possible, but in no event later than 24 hours prior to the hearing, to the allegedly mentally ill person and to that persons counsel. Copies shall likewise be provided to counsel assisting the court, to the examiners and to the court for use in questioning witnesses.

426.075 Notice and records of treatment prior to hearing; procedures. This section establishes procedures that are required to be followed before the hearing if a court, under ORS 426.070, orders a hearing under ORS 426.095. The following apply as described:

(1) The court shall be fully advised of all drugs and other treatment known to have been administered to the allegedly mentally ill person that may substantially affect the ability of the person to prepare for or function effectively at the hearing. The following shall advise the court as required by this subsection:

(a) When not otherwise provided by paragraph (b) of this subsection, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee.

(b) When the person has been detained by a warrant of detention under ORS 426.070, 426.180, 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233, the treating physician.

(2) The court shall appoint examiners under ORS 426.110 sufficiently long before the hearing so that they may begin their preparation for the hearing. The records established by the Department of Human Services by rule and the investigation report shall be made available to the examiners at least 24 hours before the hearing in order that the examiners may review the medical record and have an opportunity to inquire of the medical personnel concerning the treatment of the allegedly mentally ill person relating to the detention period prior to the hearing.

(3) The medical record described in subsection (2) of this section shall be made available to counsel for the allegedly mentally ill person at least 24 hours prior to the hearing.

(4) When requested by a party to the action, the party’s attorney shall subpoena physicians who are or have been treating the allegedly mentally ill person. Any treating physician subpoenaed under this subsection shall be subpoenaed as an expert witness.

426.080 Execution and return of citation or warrant of detention. The person serving a warrant of detention or the citation provided for by ORS 426.090 shall, immediately after service thereof, make a return upon the original warrant or citation showing the time, place and manner of such service and file it with the clerk of the court. In executing the warrant of detention or citation, the person has all the powers provided by ORS 133.235 and 161.235 to 161.245 and may require the assistance of any peace officer or other person.

426.090 Citation; service. The judge shall cause a citation to issue to the allegedly mentally ill person stating the nature of the information filed concerning the person and the specific reasons the person is believed to be mentally ill. The citation shall further contain a notice of the time and place of the commitment hearing, the right to legal counsel, the right to have legal counsel appointed if the person is unable to afford legal counsel, and, if requested, to have legal counsel immediately appointed, the right to subpoena witnesses in behalf of the person to the hearing and other information as the court may direct. The citation shall be served upon the person by delivering a duly certified copy of the original thereof to the person in person prior to the hearing. The person shall have an opportunity to consult with legal counsel prior to being brought before the court.

426.095 Commitment hearing; postponement; right to cross-examine; admissibility of investigation report. The following is applicable to a commitment hearing held by a court under ORS 426.070:

(1) The hearing may be held in a hospital, the persons home or in some other place convenient to the court and the allegedly mentally ill person.

(2) The court shall hold the hearing at the time established according to the following:

(a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) or (c) of this subsection, a hearing shall be held five judicial days from the day a court under ORS 426.070 issues a citation provided under ORS 426.090.

(b) Except as provided by paragraph (c) of this subsection, if a person is detained by a warrant of detention under ORS 426.070, a hearing shall be held within five judicial days of the commencement of detention.

(c) If requested under this paragraph, the court, for good cause, may postpone the hearing for not more than five judicial days in order to allow preparation for the hearing. The court may make orders for the care and custody of the person during a postponement as it deems necessary. If a person is detained before a hearing under ORS 426.070, 426.180, 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233 and the hearing is postponed under this paragraph, the court, for good cause, may allow the person to be detained during the postponement if the postponement is requested by the person or the legal counsel of the person. Any of the following may request a postponement under this paragraph:

(A) The allegedly mentally ill person.

(B) The legal counsel or guardian of the allegedly mentally ill person.

(C) The person representing the states interest.

(3) The allegedly mentally ill person and the person representing the states interest shall have the right to cross-examine all the following:

(a) Witnesses.

(b) The person conducting the investigation.

(c) The examining physicians or other qualified persons recommended by the Department of Human Services who have examined the person.

(4) The provisions of ORS 40.230, 40.235, 40.240 and 40.250 shall not apply to and the court may consider as evidence any of the following:

(a) Medical records for the current involuntary prehearing period of detention.

(b) Statements attributed by the maker of the medical records or the investigation report to witnesses concerning their own observations in the absence of objection or if such persons are produced as witnesses at the hearing available for cross-examination.

(c) The testimony of any treating physicians, nurses or social workers for the prehearing period of detention. Any treating physician, nurse or social worker who is subpoenaed as a witness for the proceeding shall testify as an expert witness under the provisions of ORS 40.410, 40.415, 40.420 and 40.425 and is subject to treatment as an expert witness in the payment of witness fees and costs.

(d) The investigation report prepared under ORS 426.074. Subject to the following, the investigation report shall be introduced in evidence:

(A) Introduction of the report under this paragraph does not require the consent of the allegedly mentally ill person.

(B) Upon objection by any party to the action, the court shall exclude any part of the investigation report that may be excluded under the Oregon Evidence Code on grounds other than those set forth in ORS 40.230, 40.235, 40.240 or 40.250.

(C) Neither the investigation report nor any part thereof shall be introduced into evidence under this paragraph unless the investigator is present during the proceeding to be cross-examined or unless the presence of the investigator is waived by the allegedly mentally ill person or counsel for the allegedly mentally ill person.

426.100 Advice of court; appointment of legal counsel; fee; representation of state's interest. (1) At the time the allegedly mentally ill person is brought before the court, the court shall advise the person of the following:

(a) The reason for being brought before the court;

(b) The nature of the proceedings;

(c) The possible results of the proceedings;

(d) The right to subpoena witnesses; and

(e) The person’s rights regarding representation by or appointment of counsel.

(2) Subsection (3) of this section establishes the rights of allegedly mentally ill persons in each of the following circumstances:

(a) When the person is held by warrant of detention issued under ORS 426.070.

(b) In commitment hearings under ORS 426.095.

(c) When the person is detained as provided under ORS 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233.

(d) In recommitment hearings under ORS 426.307.

(3) When provided under subsection (2) of this section, an allegedly mentally ill person has the following rights relating to representation by or appointment of counsel:

(a) The right to obtain suitable legal counsel possessing skills and experience commensurate with the nature of the allegations and complexity of the case during the proceedings.

(b) If the person does not have funds with which to retain legal counsel, the court will appoint legal counsel to represent the person without cost. If a person is unable to afford legal counsel, payment of expenses and compensation relating to legal counsel shall be made as provided under ORS 426.250.

(c) If the allegedly mentally ill person does not request legal counsel, the legal guardian, relative or friend may request the assistance of suitable legal counsel on behalf of the person.

(d) If no request for legal counsel is made, the court shall appoint suitable legal counsel unless counsel is expressly, knowingly and intelligently refused by the person.

(e) If the person is being involuntarily detained before a hearing on the issue of commitment, the right under paragraph (a) of this subsection to contact an attorney or under paragraph (b) of this subsection to have an attorney appointed may be exercised as soon as reasonably possible.

(f) In all cases suitable legal counsel shall be present at the hearing and may be present at examination and may examine all witnesses offering testimony, and otherwise represent the person.

(4) The responsibility for representing the state’s interest in commitment proceedings, including, but not limited to, preparation of the state’s case and appearances at commitment hearings is as follows:

(a) The Attorney General’s office shall have the responsibility relating to proceedings initiated by state hospital staff that are any of the following:

(A) Recommitment proceedings under ORS 426.307; or

(B) Proceedings under ORS 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233.

(b) The district attorney if requested to do so by the governing body of the county.

(c) In lieu of the district attorney under paragraph (b) of this subsection, a counsel designated by the governing body of a county shall take the responsibility. A county governing body may designate counsel to take responsibility under this paragraph either for single proceedings or for all such proceedings the county will be obligated to pay for under ORS 426.250. If a county governing body elects to proceed under this paragraph, the county governing body shall so notify the district attorney. The expenses of an attorney appointed under this paragraph shall be paid as provided under ORS 426.250.

Note: The amendments to 426.100 by section 57, chapter 962, Oregon Laws 2001, become operative October 1, 2003. See section 15, chapter 962, Oregon Laws 2001. The text that is operative on and after October 1, 2003, is set forth for the users convenience.

426.100. (1) At the time the allegedly mentally ill person is brought before the court, the court shall advise the person of the following:

(a) The reason for being brought before the court;

(b) The nature of the proceedings;

(c) The possible results of the proceedings;

(d) The right to subpoena witnesses; and

(e) The person’s rights regarding representation by or appointment of counsel.

(2) Subsection (3) of this section establishes the rights of allegedly mentally ill persons in each of the following circumstances:

(a) When the person is held by warrant of detention issued under ORS 426.070.

(b) In commitment hearings under ORS 426.095.

(c) When the person is detained as provided under ORS 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233.

(d) In recommitment hearings under ORS 426.307.

(3) When provided under subsection (2) of this section, an allegedly mentally ill person has the following rights relating to representation by or appointment of counsel:

(a) The right to obtain suitable legal counsel possessing skills and experience commensurate with the nature of the allegations and complexity of the case during the proceedings.

(b) If the person is determined to be financially eligible for appointed counsel at state expense, the court will appoint legal counsel to represent the person. If a person is appointed counsel at state expense, payment of expenses and compensation relating to legal counsel shall be made as provided under ORS 426.250.

(c) If the allegedly mentally ill person does not request legal counsel, the legal guardian, relative or friend may request the assistance of suitable legal counsel on behalf of the person.

(d) If no request for legal counsel is made, the court shall appoint suitable legal counsel unless counsel is expressly, knowingly and intelligently refused by the person.

(e) If the person is being involuntarily detained before a hearing on the issue of commitment, the right under paragraph (a) of this subsection to contact an attorney or under paragraph (b) of this subsection to have an attorney appointed may be exercised as soon as reasonably possible.

(f) In all cases suitable legal counsel shall be present at the hearing and may be present at examination and may examine all witnesses offering testimony, and otherwise represent the person.

(4) The responsibility for representing the state’s interest in commitment proceedings, including, but not limited to, preparation of the state’s case and appearances at commitment hearings is as follows:

(a) The Attorney General’s office shall have the responsibility relating to proceedings initiated by state hospital staff that are any of the following:

(A) Recommitment proceedings under ORS 426.307; or

(B) Proceedings under ORS 426.228, 426.232 or 426.233.

(b) The district attorney if requested to do so by the governing body of the county.

(c) In lieu of the district attorney under paragraph (b) of this subsection, a counsel designated by the governing body of a county shall take the responsibility. A county governing body may designate counsel to take responsibility under this paragraph either for single proceedings or for all such proceedings the county will be obligated to pay for under ORS 426.250. If a county governing body elects to proceed under this paragraph, the county governing body shall so notify the district attorney. The expenses of an attorney appointed under this paragraph shall be paid as provided under ORS 426.250.

426.110 Appointment of examiners; qualifications; fees. The following requirements relating to the appointment of examiners for purposes of a hearing under ORS 426.095 apply as described:

(1) The judge shall appoint one qualified examiner. If requested, the judge shall appoint one additional qualified examiner. A request for an additional examiner under this subsection must be made in writing and must be made by the allegedly mentally ill person or the attorney for the allegedly mentally ill person.

(2) To be qualified for purposes of this section, an examiner must meet all of the following qualifications:

(a) The person must agree to be an examiner.

(b) The person must be one of the following:

(A) A physician licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon who is competent to practice psychiatry as provided by the Department of Human Services by rule.

(B) Certified as a mental health examiner qualified to make examinations for involuntary commitment proceedings by the department. The department has authority to establish, by rule, requirements for certification as a mental health examiner for purposes of this subparagraph.

(3) The cost of examiners under this section shall be paid as provided under ORS 426.250.

426.120 Examination report; rules.

(1) Persons appointed under ORS 426.110 to conduct the examination shall do the following:

(a) Examine the person as to mental condition;

(b) Initiate the examination process prior to the hearing. Any failure to comply with this paragraph shall not, in itself, constitute sufficient grounds to challenge the examination conducted by an examiner;

(c) Make their separate reports in writing, under oath, to the court; and

(d) Upon completion of the hearing, file the reports with the clerk of the court.

(2) The following is a nonexclusive list of requirements relating to the content of examination reports prepared under subsection (1) of this section:

(a) If the examining persons find, and show by their reports, that the person examined is a mentally ill person, the reports shall include a recommendation as to the type of treatment facility best calculated to help the person recover from mental illness.

(b) Each report shall also advise the court whether in the opinion of the examiner the mentally ill person would cooperate with and benefit from a program of voluntary treatment.

(c) Reports shall contain the information required by the Department of Human Services by rule. The department shall adopt rules necessary to carry out this paragraph.

(3) The examiner shall be allowed access to physicians, nurses or social workers and to medical records compiled during the current involuntary prehearing period of detention and the investigation report. Records and communications described in this subsection and communications related thereto are not privileged under ORS 40.230, 40.235, 40.240 or 40.250.

426.123 Observation of person in custody; warning; evidence. (1) Whenever specifically required under ORS 426.070, 426.072, 426.180 or 426.234, a person shall be given a warning that observations of the person by the staff of the facility where the person is in custody may be used as evidence in subsequent court proceedings to determine whether the person should be or should continue to be committed as a mentally ill person.

(2) The warning described under subsection (1) of this section shall be given both orally and in writing.

(3) Failure to give a warning under this section does not in itself constitute grounds for the exclusion of evidence that would otherwise be admissible in a proceeding.

426.125 Qualifications and requirements for conditional release. The following qualifications, requirements and other provisions relating to a conditional release under ORS 426.130 apply as described:

(1) A court may only order conditional release if all of the following occur:

(a) The conditional release is requested by the legal guardian, relative or friend of the mentally ill person.

(b) The person requesting the conditional release requests to be allowed to care for the mentally ill person during the period of commitment in a place satisfactory to the judge.

(c) The person requesting the release establishes all of the following to the satisfaction of the court:

(A) Ability to care for the mentally ill person.

(B) That there are adequate financial resources available for the care of the mentally ill person.

(2) If the court determines to allow conditional release, the court shall order that the mentally ill person be conditionally released and placed in the care of the requester. The court shall establish any terms and conditions on the conditional release that the court determines appropriate.

(3) Any conditional release ordered under this section is subject to the provisions under ORS 426.275.

426.127 Outpatient commitment. The following provisions are applicable to outpatient commitment under ORS 426.130 as described:

(1) The Department of Human Services may only place a person in an outpatient commitment if an adequate treatment facility is available.

(2) Conditions for the outpatient commitment shall be set at the time of the hearing under ORS 426.095 by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, or a designee for the director, for the county in which the hearing takes place. The conditions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) Provision for outpatient care.

(b) A designation of a facility, service or other provider to provide care or treatment.

(3) A copy of the conditions shall be given to all of the persons described in ORS 426.278.

(4) Any outpatient commitment ordered under this section is subject to the provisions under ORS 426.275.

(5) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee, for the county where a person is on outpatient commitment, may modify the conditions for outpatient commitment when a modification is in the best interest of the person. The director or designee shall send notification of such changes and the reasons for the changes to all those who received a copy of the original conditions under ORS 426.278.

426.130 Court determination of mental illness; discharge; release for voluntary treatment; conditional release; commitment; prohibition relating to firearms; period of commitment.

(1) After hearing all of the evidence, and reviewing the findings of the examining persons, the court shall determine whether the person is mentally ill. If, in the opinion of the court, the person is:

(a) Not mentally ill, the person shall be discharged forthwith.

(b) Mentally ill based upon clear and convincing evidence, the court:

(A) Shall order the release of the individual and dismiss the case if:

(i) The mentally ill person is willing and able to participate in treatment on a voluntary basis; and

(ii) The court finds that the person will probably do so.

(B) May order conditional release under this subparagraph subject to the qualifications and requirements under ORS 426.125. If the court orders conditional release under this subparagraph, the court shall establish a period of commitment for the conditional release.

(C) May order commitment of the individual to the Department of Human Services for treatment if, in the opinion of the court, subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph is not in the best interest of the mentally ill person. If the court orders commitment under this subparagraph:

(i) The court shall establish a period of commitment.

(ii) The department may place the committed person in outpatient commitment under ORS 426.127.

(D) Shall order that the person be prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm if, in the opinion of the court, there is a reasonable likelihood the person would constitute a danger to self or others or to the community at large as a result of the persons mental or psychological state as demonstrated by past behavior or participation in incidents involving unlawful violence or threats of unlawful violence, or by reason of a single incident of extreme, violent, unlawful conduct. When a court makes an order under this subparagraph, the court shall cause a copy of the order to be delivered to the sheriff of the county who will enter the information into the Law Enforcement Data System.

(2) A court that orders a conditional release or a commitment under this section shall establish a period of commitment for the person subject to the order. Any period of commitment ordered for commitment or conditional release under this section shall be for a period of time not to exceed 180 days.

(3) If the commitment proceeding was initiated under ORS 426.070 (1)(a) and if the notice included a request under ORS 426.070 (2)(d)(B), the court shall notify the two persons of the court’s determination under subsection (1) of this section.

426.135 Counsel on appeal; costs of appeal. If a person determined to be mentally ill as provided in ORS 426.130 appeals the determination or disposition based thereon, and is unable to afford suitable legal counsel possessing skills and experience commensurate with the nature and complexity of the case to represent the person on appeal, the court, upon request of the person or upon its own motion, shall appoint suitable legal counsel to represent the person. The compensation for legal counsel and costs and expenses necessary to the appeal shall be determined and allowed by the appellate court as provided in ORS 135.055 if the circuit court is the appellate court or as provided in ORS 138.500 if the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court is the appellate court. The compensation, costs and expenses so allowed shall be paid as provided in ORS 138.500.

Note: The amendments to 426.135 by section 58, chapter 962, Oregon Laws 2001, become operative October 1, 2003. See section 15, chapter 962, Oregon Laws 2001. The text that is operative on and after October 1, 2003, is set forth for the users convenience.

426.135. If a person determined to be mentally ill as provided in ORS 426.130 appeals the determination or disposition based thereon, and is determined to be financially eligible for appointed counsel at state expense, upon request of the person or upon its own motion, the court shall appoint suitable legal counsel to represent the person. The compensation for legal counsel and costs and expenses necessary to the appeal shall be determined and paid by the public defense services executive director as provided in ORS 135.055 if the circuit court is the appellate court or as provided in ORS 138.500 if the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court is the appellate court. The compensation, costs and expenses shall be paid as provided in ORS 138.500.

426.140 Place of confinement; attendant. (1) No person, not incarcerated upon a criminal charge, who has been adjudged a mentally ill person or one against whom commitment proceedings have been instituted shall be confined in any prison, jail or other enclosure where those charged with a crime or a violation of a municipal ordinance are incarcerated, unless the person represents an immediate and serious danger to staff or physical facilities of a hospital or other facility approved by the Department of Human Services for the care, custody and treatment of the person.

(2) No allegedly mentally ill person who has been taken into custody shall be confined, either before or after the commitment hearing, without an attendant in direct charge of the person; and, if not confined in a community hospital, the sheriff or community mental health and developmental disabilities program director having the person in custody shall select some suitable person to act as attendant in quarters suitable for the comfortable, safe and humane confinement of the person and approved by the department.

426.150 Transportation to treatment facility. (1) Upon receipt of the order of commitment, the Department of Human Services or its designee shall take the mentally ill person into its custody, and insure the safekeeping and proper care of the person until delivery is made to an assigned treatment facility or its representative. The representative of the treating facility to which the person has been assigned, accompanied by any assistants the department or its designee may deem necessary, shall proceed to the place where the person is to be delivered into custody, and upon demand shall be given custody of the mentally ill person, together with the certified record required by ORS 426.170. The representative shall issue appropriate receipts therefor and immediately proceed to transport the committed mentally ill person safely to the facility to which the person has been assigned by the department and there make delivery of the person and the record to the director or a designated employee of the facility. In taking custody of the person, the department, its designee, or the representative of the facility has all the powers provided by ORS 133.225 and 161.255 and may require the assistance of any peace officer or other person.

(2) The committing judge, upon approval of the examining physicians or other qualified persons as recommended by the department and upon request of a guardian, friend or relative of the mentally ill person, may authorize the guardian, friend or relative to transport the person to the designated facility when the committing judge determines that means of transportation would not be detrimental to the welfare of the mentally ill person or to the public.

426.155 Release of information about person held in custody pending commitment proceeding or while committed or recommitted. (1) The provisions of this section apply to the release of information about a person who is held in custody either pending a commitment proceeding under ORS 426.070, 426.140, 426.228, 426.232, 426.233 or 426.237 (1)(b) or while committed or recommitted under ORS 426.005 to 426.390.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of ORS 179.495, 179.505 or 192.502 (2) and notwithstanding any other provision of ORS 426.005 to 426.390, a facility or nonhospital facility where a person is held shall establish procedures for releasing information as required under subsections (3) and (4) of this section.

(3)(a) If a person described in subsection (1) of this section authorizes disclosure as provided in subsection (5) of this section, upon request of a member of the family of the person, or any other person designated by the person, a facility or nonhospital facility where the person is held shall provide the family member or the designee with the following information:

(A) The persons diagnosis;

(B) The persons prognosis;

(C) The medications prescribed for the person and the side effects of medications prescribed, if any;

(D) The persons progress;

(E) Information about any civil commitment process, including the date, time and location of the persons commitment hearing; and

(F) Where and when the person may be visited.

(b) If a request for information is made under this subsection and the person described in subsection (1) of this section is unable to authorize disclosure as provided in subsection (5) of this section, the person requesting information shall be provided notice of the presence of the person described in subsection (1) of this section in any facility or nonhospital facility. Information shall not be provided under this paragraph if the physician of the person described in subsection (1) of this section determines that it would not be in the persons best interest to provide the information or if providing the information is prohibited by federal law.

(4) Upon the admission of any person to a facility or nonhospital facility under ORS 426.005 to 426.390, the facility or nonhospital facility shall make reasonable attempts to notify the person’s next of kin, or any other person designated by the person, of the persons admission, unless the person requests that this information not be provided. The facility or nonhospital facility shall make reasonable attempts to notify the person’s next of kin, or any other person designated by the person, of the person’s release, transfer, serious illness, injury or death upon request of the family member or designee, unless the person requests that this information not be provided. The person shall be advised by the facility or nonhospital facility that the person has the right to request that this information not be provided.

(5) The person who is held in custody shall be notified by the facility or nonhospital facility that information about the person has been requested. Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, the consent of the person who is held is required for release of information under subsections (3) and (4) of this section. If, when initially informed of the request for information, the person is unable to give voluntary and informed consent to authorize the release of information, notation of the attempt shall be made in the persons treatment record and daily efforts shall be made to secure the person’s consent or refusal of authorization.

(6) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, an individual eligible to receive information under subsection (3) of this section may not receive information unless the individual first agrees to make no further disclosure of the information. The agreement may be made orally.

(7) A facility or nonhospital facility that releases information under subsection (3) or (4) of this section shall:

(a) Notify the person who is held to whom, when and what information was released; and

(b) Note in the medical record of the person who is held:

(A) The basis for finding that the person gave voluntary and informed consent;

(B) The oral or written consent of the person who is held;

(C) To whom, when and what information was released;

(D) The agreement to the requirements of subsection (6) of this section by the person who requested information; and

(E) Any determination made by the person’s physician under subsection (3)(b) of this section regarding the provision of notice of the presence of the person in any facility or nonhospital facility.

(8) A facility or nonhospital facility, including the staff of such facilities and nonhospital facilities, that releases information under this section or rules adopted under ORS 426.236 may not be held civilly or criminally liable for damages caused or alleged to be caused by the release of information or the failure to release information as long as the release was done in good faith and in compliance with subsections (3) and (4) of this section or rules adopted under ORS 426.236.

(9) The provisions of subsections (3) and (4) of this section do not limit the ability or obligation of facilities, nonhospital facilities, physicians, mental health care providers or licensed mental health professionals to provide information as otherwise allowed or required by law.

426.160 Record of proceedings. The judge shall cause to be recorded in the court records a full account of proceedings had at all hearings and examinations conducted pursuant to ORS 426.005, 426.060 to 426.170, 426.217, 426.228, 426.255 to 426.292, 426.300 to 426.309, 426.385 and 426.395, together with the judgments and orders of the court and a copy of the orders issued. The account of the proceedings and transcripts of testimony if taken there at shall be delivered to the court clerk or court administrator who shall cause it to be sealed and neither the account of the proceedings nor the transcript of testimony if taken shall be disclosed to any person except:

(1) As provided in ORS 426.070 (5)(c), 426.130 (3) or 426.170;

(2) Upon request of the person subject to the proceedings, the legal representatives, or the attorney of the person; or

(3) Pursuant to court order.

426.170 Delivery of certified copy of record. If any person is adjudged mentally ill and ordered committed to the Department of Human Services, a copy of the complete record in the case, certified to by the court clerk or court administrator, shall be given to the health officer of the county, or to the sheriff, for delivery to the director of the facility to which such mentally ill person is assigned. The record shall include the name, residence, nativity, sex and age of such mentally ill person and all other information that may be required by the rules and regulations promulgated by the department.

426.175 [1969 c.371 §1; 195 c.690 §11; 1977 c.764 §2; 1987 c.903 §20; 1991 c.901 §1; repealed by 1993 c.484 §27]

(Emergency and Voluntary Admissions)

426.180 Emergency commitment of certain Native Americans. (1) This section applies to commitments of a person from a reservation for land-based tribes of Native Americans when, under federal law, the state does not have jurisdiction of commitments on the reservation.

(2) When this section is applicable as provided under subsection (1) of this section, a person alleged to be mentally ill by affidavit of two other persons may be admitted to a state hospital for the mentally ill for emergency treatment, care and custody, provided such affidavit includes or is accompanied by all of the following:

(a) The circumstances constituting the emergency.

(b) Written application for admission to the hospital, executed in duplicate.

(c) A certificate to the effect that the person is so mentally ill as to be in need of immediate hospitalization.

(d) A medical history, including the name, condition, sex and age of the person.

(e) The name and address of the nearest relative or legal guardian, if any, of the person.

(3) The certificates, applications and medical histories shall be made upon forms prescribed by the Department of Human Services and shall be executed by the county health officer or by two physicians licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners, none of whom shall be related to the person by blood or marriage.

(4) When a person is admitted to a state hospital under this section, any physician treating the person shall give the person the warning under ORS 426.123.

(5) This section may be applied as provided by agreement with the ruling body of the reservation. Payment of costs for a commitment made under this section shall be as provided under ORS 426.250.

426.190 Admission on emergency commitment. Immediately upon execution of the documents mentioned in ORS 426.180, the person, together with the documents, shall be transported by the sheriff or other person on the authorization of the county health officers or deputy to the state hospital indicated by law to receive such patient. The chief medical officer of the state hospital may refuse to admit the person unless the chief medical officer is satisfied from the documents that an emergency exists, and that the person is so mentally ill as to be in need of immediate hospitalization. The superintendent shall file such documents in the office of the hospital, where they shall remain a matter of record. If the superintendent is satisfied that an emergency exists, and that such person is so mentally ill as to be in need of immediate hospitalization, the superintendent shall receive and care for as a patient in the hospital the person named in the documents.

426.200 Duties following emergency admission; application for voluntary admission; court commitment. Within 48 hours after admission under ORS 426.190, an examination as to the mental condition of any person so admitted shall be commenced and shall be conducted as expeditiously as possible by two staff physicians of the state hospital where the person has been received. If, after completion of the examination, the physicians certify that the person is so mentally ill as to be in need of treatment, care or custody, the superintendent shall, if the superintendent determines that further hospitalization is necessary, within 48 hours thereafter, either obtain from the mentally ill person a signed application for voluntary admission under the provisions of ORS 426.220 or file a complaint with the court having jurisdiction under ORS 426.060 in the county where the hospital is located, requesting a court commitment as provided by law. If the examining physicians certify that the person is not so mentally ill as to be in need of treatment, care or custody, the superintendent of the state hospital shall immediately discharge the person. Costs shall be paid as provided under ORS 426.250.

426.210 Limit of detention after commitment in emergency proceedings. In no event shall any person admitted to a state hospital pursuant to the emergency proceedings provided by ORS 426.180 to 426.200 be detained therein by virtue of such proceedings for more than five judicial days following admission. The court, for good cause, may allow a postponement and detention during the postponement as provided under ORS 426.095.

426.215 [1965 c.628 §1; 1973 c.838 §32; 1975 c.690 §14; 1977 c.764 §3; 1979 c.408 §4; 1985 c.743 §§1,2,3; 1987 c.368 §1; 1987 c.903 §§24,25; repealed by 1993 c.484 §27]

426.217 Change of status of committed patient to voluntary patient; effect of change. At any time after commitment by the court, the person, with the approval of the Department of Human Services or its designee, may change the status of the person to that of a voluntary patient. Notwithstanding ORS 426.220, any person who alters status to that of a voluntary patient under this section shall be released from the treating facility within 72 hours of the request of the person for release.

426.220 Voluntary admission; leave of absence; notice to parent or guardian. (1) Pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Human Services, the superintendent of any state hospital for the treatment and care of the mentally ill may admit and hospitalize therein as a patient, any person who may be suffering from nervous disorder or mental illness, and who voluntarily has made written application for such admission. No person under the age of 18 years shall be admitted as a patient to any such state hospital unless an application therefor in behalf of the person has been executed by the parent, adult next of kin or legal guardian of the person. Except when a period of longer hospitalization has been imposed as a condition of admission, pursuant to rules and regulations of the department, no person voluntarily admitted to any state hospital shall be detained therein more than 72 hours after the person, if at least 18 years of age, has given notice in writing of a desire to be discharged therefrom, or, if the patient is under the age of 18 years, after notice in writing has been given by the parent, adult next of kin or legal guardian of the person that such parent, adult next of kin or legal guardian desires that such person be discharged therefrom.

(2) Any person voluntarily admitted to a state hospital pursuant to this section may upon application and notice to the superintendent of the hospital concerned, be granted a temporary leave of absence from the hospital if such leave, in the opinion of the superintendent, will not interfere with the successful treatment or examination of the applicant for leave.

(3) Upon admission or discharge of a minor to or from a state hospital the superintendent shall immediately notify the parent or guardian.

426.222 [1953 c.597 §1; 1961 c.385 §1; 1969 c.391 §3; 1969 c.638 §4; repealed by 1975 c.690 §28]

426.223 Retaking persons in custody of or committed to department; assistance of peace officers and others. In retaking custody of a mentally ill person who has been committed to the Department of Human Services under ORS 426.130 and who has, without lawful authority, left the custody of the facility to which the person has been assigned under ORS 426.060, or in the case of an allegedly mentally ill person who is in custody under ORS 426.070, 426.095, 426.228 to 426.235 or 426.237 at a hospital or nonhospital facility and who has, without lawful authority, left the hospital or nonhospital facility, the facility director or designee has all the powers provided by ORS 133.225 and 161.255 and may require the assistance of any peace officer or other person.

426.224 [1953 c.597 §2; 1961 c.385 §2; 1969 c.391 §4; 1969 c.638 §5; repealed by 1975 c.690 §28]

426.225 Voluntary admission to state hospital of committed person; examination by physician. (1) If any person who has been committed to the Department of Human Services under ORS 426.127 or 426.130 (1)(b)(B) or (C) requests, during this period of commitment, voluntary admission to a state hospital, the superintendent shall cause the person to be examined immediately by a physician. If the physician finds the person to be in need of immediate care or treatment for mental illness, the person shall be voluntarily admitted upon request of the person.

(2) If any person who has been committed to the department under ORS 426.127 or 426.130 (1)(b)(B) or (C) requests, during this period of commitment, voluntary admission to a facility approved by the department, the administrator of the facility shall cause the person to be examined immediately by a physician. If the physician finds the person to be in need of immediate care or treatment for mental illness, and the department grants approval, the person shall be voluntarily admitted upon request of the person.

426.226 [1953 c.597 §3; 1969 c.391 §5; 1969 c.638 §6; repealed by 1975 c.690 §28]

(Emergency Care and Treatment)

426.228 Custody; authority of peace officers and other persons; transporting to facility; reports; examination of person. (1) A peace officer may take into custody a person who the officer has probable cause to believe is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of immediate care, custody or treatment for mental illness. As directed by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, a peace officer shall remove a person taken into custody under this section to the nearest hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the Department of Human Services. The officer shall prepare a written report and deliver it to the treating physician. The report shall state:

(a) The reason for custody;

(b) The date, time and place the person was taken into custody; and

(c) The name of the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director and a telephone number where the director may be reached at all times.

(2) A peace officer shall take a person into custody when the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, pursuant to ORS 426.233, notifies the peace officer that the director has probable cause to believe that the person is imminently dangerous to self or to any other person. As directed by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, the peace officer shall remove the person to a hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the department. The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall prepare a written report that the peace officer shall deliver to the treating physician. The report shall state:

(a) The reason for custody;

(b) The date, time and place the person was taken into custody; and

(c) The name of the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director and a telephone number where the director may be reached at all times.

(3) If more than one hour will be required to transport the person to the hospital or nonhospital facility from the location where the person was taken into custody, the peace officer shall obtain, if possible, a certificate from a physician licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon stating that the travel will not be detrimental to the person's physical health and that the person is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of immediate care or treatment for mental illness. The physician shall have personally examined the allegedly mentally ill person within 24 hours prior to signing the certificate.

(4) When a peace officer or other authorized person, acting under this section, delivers a person to a hospital or nonhospital facility, a physician licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon shall examine the person immediately. If the physician finds the person to be in need of emergency care or treatment for mental illness, the physician shall proceed under ORS 426.232, otherwise the person shall not be retained in custody. If the person is to be released from custody, the peace officer or the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall return the person to the place where the person was taken into custody unless the person declines that service.

(5) A peace officer may transfer a person in custody under this section to the custody of a person authorized by the county governing body under ORS 426.233 (3). The peace officer may meet the authorized person at any location that is in accordance with ORS 426.140 to effect the transfer. When transferring a person in custody to an authorized person, the peace officer shall deliver the report required under subsections (1) and (2) of this section to the authorized person.

(6) A person authorized under ORS 426.233 (3) shall take a person into custody when directed to do so by a peace officer or by a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director under ORS 426.233.

(7) A person authorized under ORS 426.233 (3) shall perform the duties of the peace officer or the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director required by this section and ORS 426.233 if the peace officer or the director has not already done so.

(8) A person authorized under ORS 426.233 (3) may transfer a person in custody under this section to the custody of another person authorized under ORS 426.233 (3) or a peace officer. The authorized person transferring custody may meet another authorized person or a peace officer at any location that is in accordance with ORS 426.140 to effect the transfer.

426.230 [Amended by 1955 c.651 §7; repealed by 1957 c.388 §17]

426.231 Physician hold; when authorized; statement required. (1) A physician licensed by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon may hold a person for transportation to a treatment facility for up to 12 hours in a health care facility licensed under ORS chapter 431 and approved by the Department of Human Services if:

(a) The physician believes the person is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of emergency care or treatment for mental illness;

(b) The physician is not related to the person by blood or marriage; and

(c) An admitting physician at the receiving facility consents to the transporting.

(2) Before transporting the person, the physician shall prepare a written statement that:

(a) The physician has examined the person within the preceding 12 hours;

(b) An admitting physician at the receiving facility has consented to the transporting of the person for examination and admission if appropriate; and

(c) The physician believes the person is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of emergency care or treatment for mental illness.

(3) The written statement required by subsection (2) of this section authorizes a peace officer, a person authorized under ORS 426.233 or the designee of a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director to transport a person to the treatment facility indicated on the statement.

426.232 Physician emergency admission; notice; limit of hold. (1) When a physician licensed to practice medicine by the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Oregon believes a person who is brought to a hospital or nonhospital facility by a peace officer under ORS 426.228, a person authorized under ORS 426.233 or a person who is at a hospital or nonhospital facility is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of emergency care or treatment for mental illness, the physician may do one of the following:

(a) After consulting with a physician or a qualified mental health professional, as defined by rule of the Department of Human Services, detain the person and cause the person to be admitted or, if the person is already admitted, cause the person to be retained in a hospital where the physician has admitting privileges or is on staff. Neither the physician nor the qualified mental health professional may be related by blood or marriage to the person.

(b) Approve the person for emergency care or treatment at a nonhospital facility approved by the department.

(2) When approving a person for emergency care or treatment at a nonhospital facility under this section, the physician shall notify immediately the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director in the county where the person was taken into custody and maintain the person, if the person is being held at a hospital, for as long as is feasible given the needs of the person for mental or physical health or safety. However, under no circumstances may the person be held for longer than five judicial days.

426.233 Authority of community mental health and developmental disabilities program director and of other persons; costs of transportation.

(1)

(a) A community mental health and developmental disabilities program director operating under ORS 430.610 to 430.695 or a designee thereof, under authorization of a county governing body, may take one of the actions listed in paragraph (b) of this subsection when the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee has probable cause to believe a person:

(A) Is dangerous to self or to any other person and is in need of immediate care, custody or treatment for mental illness; or

(B)

(i) Is a mentally ill person placed on conditional release under ORS 426.125, outpatient commitment under ORS 426.127 or trial visit under ORS 426.273; and

(ii) Is dangerous to self or to any other person or is unable to provide for basic personal needs and is not receiving the care that is necessary for health and safety and is in need of immediate care, custody or treatment for mental illness.

(b) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee under the circumstances set out in paragraph (a) of this subsection may:

(A) Notify a peace officer to take the person into custody and direct the officer to remove the person to a hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the Department of Human Services;

(B) Authorize involuntary admission of, or, if already admitted, cause to be involuntarily retained in a nonhospital facility approved by the department, a person approved for care or treatment at a nonhospital facility by a physician under ORS 426.232;

(C) Notify a person authorized under subsection (3) of this section to take the person into custody and direct the authorized person to remove the person in custody to a hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the department;

(D) Direct a person authorized under subsection (3) of this section to transport a person in custody from a hospital or a nonhospital facility approved by the department to another hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the department as provided under ORS 426.235; or

(E) Direct a person authorized under subsection (3) of this section to transport a person in custody from a facility approved by the department to another facility approved by the department as provided under ORS 426.060.

(2) A designee under subsection (1) of this section must be recommended by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, meet the standards established by rule of the department and be approved by the county governing body before assuming the authority permitted under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) The county governing body may, upon recommendation by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, authorize any person to provide custody and secure transportation services for a person in custody under ORS 426.228. In authorizing a person under this subsection, the county governing body shall grant the person the authority to do the following:

(a) Accept custody from a peace officer of a person in custody under ORS 426.228;

(b) Take custody of a person upon notification by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director under the provisions of this section;

(c) Remove a person in custody to an approved hospital or nonhospital facility as directed by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director;

(d) Transfer a person in custody to another person authorized under this subsection or a peace officer;

(e) Transfer a person in custody from a hospital or nonhospital facility to another hospital facility or nonhospital facility when directed to do so by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director; and

(f) Retain a person in custody at the approved hospital or nonhospital facility until a physician makes a determination under ORS 426.232.

(4) A person authorized under subsection (3) of this section must be recommended by the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, meet the standards established by rule of the department and be approved by the governing body before assuming the authority granted under this section.

(5) The costs of transporting a person as authorized under ORS 426.060, 426.228 or 426.235 by a person authorized under subsection (3) of this section shall be the responsibility of the county whose peace officer or community mental health and developmental disabilities program director directs the authorized person to take custody of a person and to transport the person to a facility approved by the department, but the county shall not be responsible for costs that exceed the amount provided by the state for that transportation. A person authorized to act under subsection (3) of this section shall charge the cost of emergency medical transportation to, and collect that cost from, the person, third party payers or otherwise legally responsible persons or agencies in the same manner that costs for the transportation of other persons are charged and collected.

426.234 Duties of professionals at facility where person admitted; notification; duties of court. (1) At the time a person is admitted to or retained in a hospital or nonhospital facility under ORS 426.232 or 426.233, a physician, nurse or qualified mental health professional at the hospital or nonhospital facility shall:

(a) Inform the person of the person’s right to representation by or appointment of counsel as described in ORS 426.100;

(b) Give the person the warning under ORS 426.123;

(c) Immediately examine the allegedly mentally ill person; and

(d) Set forth, in writing, the condition of the person and the need for emergency care or treatment.

(2)(a) At the time the person is admitted to or retained in a hospital under ORS 426.232, the physician shall contact the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person resides, if the county of residence is different from the county in which the hospital is located. The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director may request that the physician notify the circuit court in the county in which the person resides. If the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director does not make the request authorized by this paragraph, the physician shall notify, immediately and in writing, the circuit court in the county in which the person is hospitalized.

(b) At the time the person is admitted to a hospital under ORS 426.232 after being brought to the hospital by a peace officer under ORS 426.228, the physician shall contact the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person is hospitalized. The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person is hospitalized may request that the physician notify the circuit court in the county in which the person is hospitalized. If the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director does not make the request authorized by this paragraph, the physician shall notify, immediately and in writing, the circuit court in the county in which the person was taken into custody.

(c) If, at any time prior to the hearing under ORS 426.070 to 426.130, the physician responsible for a person admitted or retained under ORS 426.232 determines that the person is not dangerous to self or others and is not in need of emergency care or treatment for mental illness, the physician may release the person from the detention authorized by ORS 426.232. The physician shall immediately notify the circuit court notified under this subsection and the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the person’s release from detention.

(3)(a) At the time the person is admitted to or retained in a nonhospital facility under ORS 426.233, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director in the county where the person was taken into custody shall contact the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person resides, if the county of residence is different from the county in which the person was taken into custody. The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person resides may request that the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person was taken into custody notify the circuit court in the county where the person resides. Otherwise, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director of the county in which the person was taken into custody shall notify, immediately and in writing, the circuit court in the county in which the person was taken into custody.

(b) If, at any time prior to the hearing under ORS 426.070 to 426.130, a community mental health and developmental disabilities program director, after consultation with a physician, determines that a person admitted or retained under ORS 426.233 is not dangerous to self or others and is not in need of immediate care, custody or treatment for mental illness, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director may release the person from detention. The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall immediately notify the circuit court originally notified under paragraph (a) of this subsection of the person’s release from detention.

(4) When the judge of the circuit court receives notice under subsection (2) or (3) of this section, the judge immediately shall commence proceedings under ORS 426.070 to 426.130. In a county having a population of 100,000 or more, and when feasible in a county with a lesser population, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director or designee who directs the peace officer or other authorized person to take a person into custody under ORS 426.233 shall not also conduct the investigation as provided for under ORS 426.074. Except when a person is being held under ORS 426.237 (1)(b), a person shall not be held under ORS 426.232 or 426.233 for more than five judicial days without a hearing being held under ORS 426.070 to 426.130.

(5) When the judge of the circuit court receives notice under subsection (2)(c) or (3)(b) of this section that a person has been released, and unless the court receives the recommendation required by ORS 426.070 (4), the judge shall dismiss the case no later than 14 days after the date the person was initially detained.

426.235 Transfer between hospital and nonhospital facilities. (1) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director may transfer a person in custody under ORS 426.232, 426.233 or 426.237 (1)(b) to a hospital or nonhospital facility approved by the Department of Human Services at any time during the period of detention.

(2) A person in custody at a hospital may be transferred from the hospital only with the consent of the treating physician and when the director of a nonhospital facility approved by the department agrees to admit the person.

(3) A person in custody at a nonhospital facility approved by the department may be transferred to a hospital approved by the department only when a physician with admitting privileges agrees to admit the person.

(4) In transporting a person between a hospital and nonhospital facility under this section, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director has all the powers provided in ORS 133.225 and 161.255 and may compel the assistance of any peace officer or other person.

(5) When a person is transferred under this section, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall notify immediately the court notified under ORS 426.234 (2) or (3) of the fact of the transfer and of the location of the person.

426.236 Rules. The Department of Human Services shall adopt rules necessary to carry out the provisions of ORS 426.155 and 426.228 to 426.238.

426.237 Prehearing detention; duties of community mental health and developmental disabilities program director; certification for treatment; court proceedings. (1) During a prehearing period of detention as provided in ORS 426.070, 426.140, 426.232 or 426.233, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall do one of the following:

(a) Recommend, in an investigation report as provided in ORS 426.074, that the circuit court not proceed further in the matter if the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director does not believe the person is a mentally ill person.

(b) No later than three judicial days after initiation of a prehearing period of detention as provided in ORS 426.070, 426.140, 426.232 or 426.233, certify the detained person for a 14-day period of intensive treatment if:

(A) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director and a psychiatrist, as defined by rule by the Department of Human Services, have probable cause to believe the person is a mentally ill person;

(B) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director in the county where the person resides verbally approves the arrangements for payment for the services at the hospital or nonhospital facility; and

(C) The community mental health and developmental disabilities program director locates a hospital or nonhospital facility that:

(i) Is approved by the department and the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director in the county where the person resides; and

(ii) Can, in the opinion of the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director and the psychiatrist, provide intensive care or treatment for mental illness necessary and sufficient to meet the emergency psychiatric needs of the person.

(c) Recommend, in an investigation report as provided in ORS 426.074, that the circuit court hold a hearing under ORS 426.070 to 426.130 if the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director has probable cause to believe the person is a mentally ill person.

(2)(a) If the circuit court adopts the recommendation of the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director under subsection (1)(a) of this section, the circuit court shall enter an order releasing the person and dismissing the case. Unless the person agrees to voluntary treatment, if the person is being detained in a:

(A) Nonhospital facility, the director shall make discharge plans and insure the discharge of the person.

(B) Hospital, the treating physician shall make discharge plans and discharge the person.

(b) Upon release of the person, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall attempt to notify the persons next of kin if the person consents to the notification.

(3)(a) If the detained person is certified for treatment under subsection (1)(b) of this section, the community mental health and developmental disabilities program director shall:

(A)