In re J.D.L.
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The Supreme Court reversed the oral pronouncement issued by the district court waiving Appellant's right to be physically present at his commitment hearing and the findings of fact, conclusions of law, and order of commitment issued by the district court, holding that the court committed reversible error by waiving Appellant's right to physically appear.
The State filed a petition for involuntary commitment of Appellant supported by a mental health evaluation. Appellant advised the court that he desired to be present in-person at the commitment hearing. At the time of the hearing, however, counsel represented that he wished to waive Appellant's appearance and instead have him appear via two-way video conferencing due to improper behavior. The district court granted counsel's request and permitted him to appear via two-way video communication. The district court subsequently committed Appellant to the Montana State Hospital and authorized the use of involuntary medication. The Supreme Court reversed, holding that the statutory requirements for waiver of physical presence at the commitment hearing were not met.
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