Parham v. J. R.

The question presented in this appeal is what process is constitutionally due a minor child whose parents or guardian seek state administered institutional mental health care for the child and specifically whether an adversary proceeding is required prior to or after the commitment.

I(a) Appellee 1 J. R., a child being treated in a Georgia state mental hospital, was a plaintiff in this class action2 based on 42 U. S. C. § 1983, in the District Court for the Middle District of Georgia. Appellants are the State’s Commissioner *588of the Department of Human Resources, the Director of the Mental…