NC S687

Allows clerks, assistant clerks, deputy clerks of superior court, or magistrates to issue involuntary inpatient commitment custody orders by facsimile transmission to physicians, eligible psychologists, or designees at 24-hour facilities when the respondent is already physically present at that facility.

Requires the physician, eligible psychologist, or designee receiving the facsimile custody order to immediately notify the respondent that they are being taken into custody for treatment and safety purposes (not under arrest), take the respondent into custody, complete and sign the custody order, and return it to the clerk or magistrate by facsimile within the same timeframe.

Mandates that original custody orders be mailed to the clerk or magistrate within five days of facsimile transmission, and requires the clerk or magistrate to file the original with the facsimile copy.

Restricts facsimile issuance of custody orders to physicians or eligible psychologists at 24-hour facilities who have completed training in proper service and return of service; includes on-site police security personnel as eligible designees.

Becomes effective October 1, 2013.