The Civil Commitment Department schedules all hearings that follow the emergency commitment proceedings under the Mental Health Procedures Act, 50 P.S. Section 7101, et seq. The hearings are held at various hospitals and facilities located throughout Allegheny County and are conducted by Mental Health Review Officers employed by the Orphans’ Court Division. Attorneys from the Allegheny County Law Department represent the petitioners (the person requesting the commitment) while the Public Defenders Office represents the respondents (the person being committed). All hearings are recorded. The judges of the division hear petitions for review from the civil commitment recommendations issued by the Review Officers.

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