Archer Brogan, LLP elder and disability law attorney Jane Fearn-Zimmer assisted a New Jersey family with legal advice/advocacy and secured the early release of their loved one, after a series of unfortunate events culminated in an involuntary commitment order, apparently due to a medical misdiagnoses.

In this case, a family member expressed concern to the relative’s new physician, who did not know the patient well, and had spent minimal time with the patient. The patient was going through a very difficult marital separation and was understandably upset. The middle-aged patient had known no pre-existing diagnosis of chronic mental illness and had cared for other family members for many years while also maintaining employment.  

The family member was escorted to the hospital by the police from the medical office.  The patient was promptly made the subject of an involuntary commitment order and was transferred to a behavioral health facility.  Jane was retained by the family to help get the relative released. 

Getting in touch with a medical facility’s administrator can be challenging even before the pandemic, but since Jane knows the ins-and-outs of the behavioral health system, it was seamless for her to communicate quickly and efficiently with the right people. She was able to get the facility’s executive and its medical doctor to clear the patient for release prior to the scheduled involuntary commitment hearing date after she learned that the patient was not receiving appropriate care for a medical issue and group therapy sessions could not be held because the patients were confined to their rooms. Both patient and family were thrilled to be reunited.

“Jane helped me during my darkest time. She gave me hope as she acted in the most professional and attentive manner throughout the process of gaining our discovery.  She was very attentive to all my needs, answering my concerns as they came up daily,” said the client “This type of reassurance was a Godsend to me and enabled me to keep my composure knowing that I had a loyal, intelligent human on the outside representing my best interests and protecting my human rights. I feel forever indebted to her for her kindness and dedication to working so hard on my behalf, presenting a factual case, which enabled her to gain me an early emergency, after a lengthy and difficult stay. I am forever grateful for her.”

Questions? Let Jane know.