The law provides time frames that the court system needs to adhere to upon filing.
Within ten (10) days of filing an Petition for Involuntary Treatment, a hearing must be held. If an emergency condition exists and is asserted in the petition, a decision is made ex-parte (without hearing) by the court based solely on the contents of the petition itself. It is important for a petitioner to understand that there is no control over the clerk or court system and that every county procedure is different. An attorney would work diligently with each court specific system to ensure that the law is followed in its entirety and expedited for the petitioner and respondent’s benefit. Unfortunately, a pro se petitioner does not have the same leverage with the court system as an experienced Marchman Act Attorney. A pro se petitioner should do their best to stay in contact with the clerk of the court to obtain guidance regarding the court’s procedure and the status of their filing.