In Re Bert W.

I. BACKGROUND

This case involves a petition that alleges Bert W (respondent) to be a person subject to involuntary admission for mental health treatment. On November 20, 1998, respondent was involuntarily admitted to Chicago Read Mental Health Center. On December 2, 1998, 12 days after respondent’s admission, a commitment hearing was held. Following a bench trial, the circuit court ordered that respondent be hospitalized at Chicago Read Mental Health Center. Respondent appeals from an order finding him subject to involuntary hospitalization. On appeal, respondent contends that: (1) the circuit…