Delaware § 5022 - Return of patients; order; notice; custody.
Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 5022 — Return of patients; order; notice; custody., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5022. Return of patients; order; notice; custody.
(a) If an inpatient of a state-operated hospital escapes or is on unauthorized leave, its director may issue an order for the patient’s immediate rehospitalization. The director or the director’s designee may notify such patient of the existence of a rehospitalization order by any reasonable means of communication open to the director. Such an order, irrespective of the patient’s actual receipt, shall authorize any peace officer to take the patient into custody for rehospitalization.
(b) If an involuntarily committed inpatient or a person detained involuntarily under this chapter from a nonstate-operated hospital certified under § 5026 of this title escapes or is on unauthorized leave, that hospital’s director shall immediately notify the Director of the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health or the Director’s designee if the patient is 18 years of age or older or the Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services if the patient is under 18 years of age. Upon receipt of such notification, the Division Director or the Director’s designee may issue notice and a rehospitalization order in conformity with subsection (a) of this section. Such an order, irrespective of the patient’s actual receipt, shall authorize any peace officer to take the patient into custody for rehospitalization.
79 Del. Laws, c. 442, § 1;Source: official Delaware text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 5022
What does Delaware Code § 5022 cover?
Section 5022 ("Return of patients; order; notice; custody.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Delaware § 5022?
A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 5022" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Delaware law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.
How does Delaware § 5022 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.