P. v. Esteva CA2/1
In 2012, Alvin Esteva was diagnosed with bipolar mania after attacking his wife. He was involuntarily committed to a mental institution for a period not to exceed six years, where he received treatment including psychotropic medication. Esteva requested release from the institution at every six-month review hearing, but the superior court denied each request on the ground that treating mental health professionals recommended he remain hospitalized. However, in 2016, the mental health professionals concluded Esteva no longer posed a danger to the community and recommended that he be released to supervised community outpatient treatment. The superior court nevertheless denied his latest petition for release. On appeal, Esteva contends the superior court abused its discretion by disregarding unanimous medical opinion and denying his petition.
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