Montana Title 53. Social Services and Institutions § 53-21-130. Transfer or commitment to mental health facility from other institutions

(1) A person who is in the custody of the department for any purpose other than treatment of severe mental illness may not be transferred or committed to a mental health facility for more than 10 days unless the transfer or commitment is effected according to the procedures set out in this part. However, proceedings for involuntary commitment may be commenced in the county of the mental health facility where the person is, in the county of the institution from which the person was transferred to the mental health facility, or in the county of the person's residence. Notice of a transfer must be given immediately to the assigned counsel at the mental health facility and to the parents of minors, guardians, friends of respondent, or conservators.

(2) A person who is in the custody of the department of corrections may be transferred for placement in a mental health facility for a period of up to 10 days, subject to the approval of the mental health facility. A placement in excess of 10 days must be performed according to the procedures for voluntary admission or involuntary commitment as provided in this part. Proceedings for involuntary commitment may be commenced in the county of the mental health facility where the person is placed or in the county of the correctional facility from which the person was transferred. Notice of a transfer must be given to the legal counsel for the person and to the parents of minors, guardians, friends of respondent, or conservators.