commitment hearing
Legal proceeding to determine whether involuntary psychiatric hospitalization should continue beyond initial hold period.
Full Definition
A formal court hearing where evidence is presented to determine if a patient meets legal criteria for continued involuntary psychiatric treatment. The patient has the right to legal representation, may present witnesses, and can challenge the hospital's recommendation for continued commitment. The hearing typically occurs within a specified timeframe after initial involuntary admission and requires clear and convincing evidence that the patient meets statutory criteria for mental illness and dangerousness or grave disability.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize when referring to specific scheduled hearing; hyphenate compound adjective form.
In Context
- "The commitment hearing is scheduled for Friday morning with the patient's attorney present." — legal documentation
- "Clinical staff must prepare testimony for the commitment hearing including current mental status findings." — legal preparation memo