Orphans' Court | Civil Commitments
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
Defender's 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.
Additional information on Civil Commitments can be found on
frequently asked questions
.