NC S709

Allows clerks of court to dismiss involuntary commitment (IVC) proceedings at any time before a district court hearing if the attending physician determines the respondent no longer meets involuntary commitment criteria.

Requires the attending physician to conduct further examination as specified in G.S. 122C-263(c) before making the determination that criteria are no longer met.

Mandates the attending physician record findings in writing, release the respondent, and notify both the respondent and the clerk of court by reliable and expeditious means.

Requires the clerk of court to terminate proceedings and enter a dismissal order specifying that the respondent no longer meets involuntary commitment criteria upon receipt of the physician's written findings.

Effective October 1, 2021, and applies to cases pending on or after that date.