How can I observe and/or participate in involuntary commitment court proceedings?

All court hearings for involuntary commitments are closed to the public. The only individuals who are allowed by law to appear and participate in these hearings are DA’s Office representatives, the patient, the patient’s attorney, the judge, court staff, law enforcement, physicians, and qualified mental health professionals.  If one of these parties needs your participation, they will contact you and let you know. If you would like to observe one of these hearings, you will need the express permission of the patient.  You can contact the patient’s attorney in order to try to obtain that permission.  All involuntary commitment proceedings are currently being held via secure ZOOM video.