The court shall promptly advise the alleged narcotic addict that the petition and the report of the medical examination set forth reasonable grounds to believe that the person is a narcotic addict, shall give him or her a copy of the report, and explain that if the court finds him or her to be a narcotic addict he or she shall be certified to the care and custody of the department for an indefinite period not exceeding three (3) years, provided that facilities are available. The court shall then advise the alleged narcotic addict that he or she has a right to a hearing before the court or a jury trial, without fee, as provided in this section. If the alleged narcotic addict appears without counsel, the court shall advise the person of his or her right to counsel and proceed in regard thereto as provided in subdivision (4) of § 21-28.2-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 1970, ch. 163, § 1.