By: Derek Hawkins//April 15, 2020//
WI Court of Appeals – District IV
Case Name: Jefferson County v. M.P.
Case No.: 2019AP2229-FT
Officials: BLANCHARD, J.
Focus: Prisoner – Involuntary Commitment
M.P. appeals an order of the circuit court extending her mental health commitment by 12 months under WIS. STAT. ch. 51 and authorizing continued outpatient care with conditions that include involuntary medication as necessary. M.P. does not dispute that Jefferson County proved by clear and convincing evidence that she is mentally ill and a proper subject for treatment. See Portage Cty. v. J.W.K., 2019 WI 54, ¶18, 386 Wis. 2d 672, 927 N.W.2d 509 (citing WIS. STAT. § 51.20(1)(a), (am)) (petitioner seeking recommitment must prove by clear and convincing evidence, first, that the individual is mentally ill and a proper subject for treatment and, second, that the individual is dangerous). M.P.’s argument is that Jefferson County failed to prove by clear and convincing evidence that she is dangerous. I conclude that the County met its burden of proof and accordingly affirm.