On Point blog, page 15 of 15
Mental Health Commitment – “Fifth Standard” – Constitutionality
State v. Dennis H., 2002 WI 104, on certification
For Dennis H.: Ellen Henak, SPD Milwaukee Appellate
Issue: Whether the “fifth standard” for mental commitment, § 51.20(1)(a)2.e. (roughly: refusing treatment due to incapacity for making rational treatment decision), is constitutional.
Holding: The statute isn’t vague — the state must prove the various “elements” of this standard (which the court spells out and won’t be repeated here).
Defense win – circuit court lost competency due to incorrect computation of time Limit for probable cause hearing
Dodge County v. Ryan E.M., 2002 WI App 71
For Ryan E.M.: Eileen A. Hirsch, SPD, Madison Appellate
Issue: Whether the 72-hour deadline, necessary for the court’s competency over the ch. 51 commitment proceeding, is measured from the subject’s time of detention. (“¶4. The issue in this case is whether the method of computing time set forth in Wis. Stat. § 990.001(4)(a) and (d), in which the first day is excluded,
Mental health Commitment – Final Hearing Deadline
County of Milwaukee v. Edward S., 2001 WI App 169, PFR filed
For Edward S.: Richard D. Martin, SPD, Madison Appellate
Issue: Whether the 14-day deadline set by § 51.20(7)(c) for final hearing is extendible when delay is caused by the respondent’s own action.
Holding: The otherwise mandatory deadline for final commitment hearing is waivable when the delay is caused by the respondent — here, firing his attorney.