229A.6A Transport orders.

1. A person who has been detained prior to trial pursuant to section 229A.5 or who has been civilly committed may be transported for the following purposes:

a. To trial and any other court proceedings if the court has authorized a transport order. A transport order may only be requested by the court, the person’s attorney, or the attorney general. Transportation shall be provided by the sheriff of the county in which the action has been brought, unless the court specifies otherwise or the parties agree to a different transportation arrangement. If a transport order is not authorized, the person may appear at any court proceedings other than trial by telephone or electronic means.

b. To a medical facility for medical treatment, if necessary medical treatment is not available at the facility where the person is confined. A transport order is not required to transport the person for medical treatment. However, the person is not entitled to choose the medical facility where treatment is to be obtained or the medical personnel to provide the treatment. Transportation of a committed person shall be provided by the sheriff of the county in which the person is confined if requested by the department of human services.

c. To a medical, psychological, or psychiatric evaluation. A person shall not be transported to another facility for evaluation without a court order. When a transportation order is requested under this paragraph, notice must be provided to the opposing party, and the opposing party must be given a reasonable amount of time to object to the issuance of such an order. The cost of the transportation shall be paid by the party who requests the order.

d. To a facility for placement or treatment in a transitional release program or for release with supervision. A transport order is not required under this paragraph.

2. This section shall not be construed to grant a person the right to personally appear at all court proceedings under this chapter.

2002 Acts, ch 1139, §7, 27; 2018 Acts, ch 1165, §99

Subsection 1, paragraph d amended