1. (a) A final hearing required by section 9 of this chapter shall be held not later than fourteen (14) days from the date of the individual's admission to a facility, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. The purpose of a final hearing is to determine by clear and convincing evidence whether the individual is:

   1. (1) mentally ill and either dangerous or gravely disabled; and
   2. (2) in need of temporary or regular commitment.

2. (b) At a final hearing, an individual may not be found in need of temporary or regular commitment unless:

   1. (1) the physician who signed the attestation under section 1 of this chapter; or

   2. (2) at least one (1) physician who has personally examined the individual;

      testifies at the hearing. This testimony may be waived by the individual if the waiver is voluntarily and knowingly given.

      [Pre-1992 Revision Citation: 16-13-9.1-7(e) part.]

As added by P.L.2-1992, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.205-2023, SEC.19.