The Probate Court oversees the involuntary civil commitment process of individuals who are alleged to be psychiatrically or developmentally disabled. The Probate Court conducts hearings to determine whether the individual is subject to court ordered treatment. All individuals involved have legal representation throughout the process. Psychiatric Commitment proceedings and records are confidential by law.

MENtal Illness

The Psychiatric Commitments Department is responsible for accepting affidavits and other applications and motions to initiate the involuntary civil commitment procedure of this Court pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5122. The Court through this Department appoints an attorney, an independent medical expert for the respondent, and maintains a strict hearing schedule with a record of the procedings. Most interaction between the Court and the County and State Mental Health systems are processed through this Department. All filings are indexed, docketed, and imaged while maintaining statutory confidentiality. The facts on the affidavit must be sufficient to indicate probable cause under law. All filings must be completed within the Court by 4:00 PM.