(A) Following an examination by a qualified health professional and a certification by that professional that the person meets the criteria specified in section 5119.92 of the Revised Code, a probate court may order the person hospitalized for a period not to exceed seventy-two hours if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the person presents an imminent threat of danger to self, family, or others as a result of alcohol and other drug abuse. However, if the hearing to be held under section 5119.94 of the Revised Code will not be held within seventy-two hours, the court may order the person hospitalized until the hearing. In making its order, the court shall inform the person that the person may immediately make a reasonable number of telephone calls or use other reasonable means to contact an attorney, a licensed physician, or a qualified health professional, to contact any other person or persons to secure representation by counsel, or to obtain medical or psychological assistance and that the person will be provided assistance in making calls if the assistance is needed and requested.

(B) Any person who has been admitted to a hospital under division (A) of this section shall be released from the hospital immediately upon the expiration of the time period established by the court for the hospitalization.

(C) No person ordered hospitalized under this section shall be held in jail pending transportation to the hospital or evaluation unless the probate court previously has found the person to be in contempt of court for either failure to undergo treatment or failure to appear at the evaluation ordered pursuant to section 5119.94 of the Revised Code.

Renumbered from § 3793.36 by 130th General Assembly File No. 25, HB 59, §101.01, eff. 9/29/2013.

Added by 129th General AssemblyFile No.65, SB 117, §1, eff. 3/22/2012.