In the Matter of the Civil Commitment of R.F. Svp 490-08 (070552)

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey reversed the Appellate Division and reinstated the trial judge’s dismissal of the State’s civil‑commitment petition, holding that the trial court’s findings were supported by sufficient credible evidence and entitled to deference. The Court also stayed R.F.’s release for thirty days to allow preparation of a discharge plan. Justice Patterson’s dissent argues the opposite, contending that the record shows the State met its burden and that commitment should be affirmed.