§ 33-3-607 — Examination of defendant - Detention and release

If the complaint includes or is accompanied by a sworn statement by the plaintiff that the defendant has refused to be examined by certifying professionals and the court finds that probable cause exists to believe that the defendant is subject to involuntary care and treatment and has refused to be examined by a certifying professional, the court shall order a law enforcement officer to take the defendant into custody for an examination by two (2) certifying professionals who meet the requirements of the commitment statute. The defendant may be detained for the period required to complete the examinations, but not more than forty-eight (48) hours. Upon completion of the examinations, the person shall be released, and the certifying professionals shall report their findings to the court. For good cause, the court may order further examination, including independent examination, as to the mental condition of the person and may continue the hearing until the report of the examination is made to the court.

Legislative History

Acts 1983, ch. 323, § 9; T.C.A., § 33-366; Acts 1984, ch. 922, §§ 16, 19; 2000, ch. 947, § 1.