Maine Revised Statutes Title 34-B. Behavioral and Developmental Services § 7007. Submitting petition to determine informed consent; notice of hearing

1. Petition submission. The petition for a determination of ability to give informed consent shall be submitted to the District Court in the division of residence of the person seeking sterilization or for whom sterilization is sought.

2. Notice of hearing. Upon the receipt of a petition to determine informed consent, the District Court shall assign a time, not later than 30 days thereafter, and a place for hearing the petition. The court may, at its discretion, hold the hearing on the petition at a place within the county other than the usual courtroom if it would facilitate the presence of the person seeking sterilization or for whom sterilization is sought.

3. Service of notice. The court shall cause a copy of the petition and notice of hearing to be served on the person seeking sterilization or for whom sterilization is sought and that person’s guardian or custodian, if any, at least 7 days prior to the hearing date. If a guardian or custodian of the person seeking sterilization or for whom sterilization is sought is not a resident of this State, notice may be served by registered mail. If the residence of a guardian or custodian is unknown, an affidavit so stating must be filed in lieu of service.