Rhode Island § 14-5-7 - Treatment of Juveniles for Chemical Dependency

§ 14-5-7. Parental refusal — Custodial treatment.

(a) In the event that a minor voluntarily seeks custodial or invasive treatment, a qualified professional determines that that treatment is in the best interest of the minor, and the minor’s parents refuse to consent to treatment, the minor, or anyone on his or her behalf, may petition the family court for approval of treatment.

(b) A judge of the family court shall, upon petition and after an appropriate hearing, authorize custodial or invasive treatment if the judge determines that the child is mature and capable of making his or her decision as to the need for treatment, or if the judge determines that the child is not mature but that the custodial invasive treatment requested by the child would be in the child’s best interests.

(c) A child may participate in the hearing on his or her own behalf and shall be represented in the proceeding by legal counsel. Proceedings in the family court under this section shall be confidential and shall be given precedence over other pending matters, so that the court may reach a decision promptly and without delay so as to serve the best interests of the child.

(d) A judge of the family court who conducts proceedings under this section shall make in writing specific factual findings and legal conclusions supporting his or her decision and shall order a record of the evidence to be maintained, including his or her own findings and conclusions.