Instructions for Form DC-489(A) Medical Treatment and Detention Petition - Virginia

Form DC-489(A) Medical Treatment and Detention Petition - Virginia

This document contains official instructions for Form DC-489(A) , Medical Treatment and Detention Petition - a form released and collected by the Virginia District Court. An up-to-date fillable Form DC-489(A) is available for download through this link.

FAQ

Q: What is Form DC-489(A)?
A: Form DC-489(A) is a document used in Virginia for filing a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition.

Q: What is a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition?
A: A Medical Treatment and Detention Petition is a legal document used to request involuntary psychiatric treatment for someone who is unable to make informed decisions about their own treatment.

Q: Who can file a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition?
A: In Virginia, a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition can be filed by any person who has personal knowledge of the subject's need for treatment.

Q: What information is needed to fill out Form DC-489(A)?
A: Form DC-489(A) requires information about the person in need of treatment, their condition, and the reasons for requesting involuntary treatment.

Q: Are there any fees associated with filing a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition?
A: There may be fees associated with filing a Medical Treatment and Detention Petition, but they vary depending on the jurisdiction. Contact your local courthouse for specific fee information.

Q: What is the process after filing Form DC-489(A)?
A: After filing Form DC-489(A), a hearing will be scheduled to determine the need for involuntary treatment. A judge will review the petition and consider evidence presented by both the petitioner and the subject of the petition.

Q: Can the subject of the petition oppose the treatment?
A: Yes, the subject of the petition has the right to oppose the treatment and present their own evidence at the hearing.

Q: What happens if the petition is granted?
A: If the petition is granted, the subject may be involuntarily admitted to a psychiatric facility for treatment.

Q: What happens if the petition is denied?
A: If the petition is denied, the subject will not be involuntarily admitted for treatment and may continue to make their own decisions about their treatment.