Lunatics - Insane Defined

That the word "insane" shall mean any person who, by reason of unsoundness of mind, is incapable of managing and caring for his own estate, or is dangerous to himself or others, if permitted to go at large, or is in such condition of mind or body as to be a fit subject for care and treatment in an asylum or hospital for the insane; provided, that no person, idiot from birth, or whose mental development was arrested by disease, or physical injury occurring prior to the age of puberty, and no person afflicted with simple epilepsy, shall be regarded as insane, unless the manifestations of abnormal excitability, violence or homicidal or suicidal impulses are such as to render his confinement a proper precaution to prevent him from injuring himself or others.

R. S., ch. 85, sec. 1.

Proceedings For Supposed Insanity

When any person shall be supposed to be insane, any reputable citizen of the county may file with the clerk of the county court a written statement under oath, setting forth that the person named is insane and unsafe to be at large, or is suffering under mental derangement, and that the welfare of himself or others requires his restraint or commitment to some asylum or hospital for the insane; this statement must be accompanied by the names of the witnesses, one of whom must be a physician having personal knowledge of the case, by whom the truth of the allegations therein contained may be proved. If it appear that the person alleged to be insane has not been examined by a physician, the judge may appoint a physician to make proper examination.

Sec. 3.

Inquests In Lunacy

Inquests in lunacy shall be by a jury or a commission of two licensed physicians.

Sec. 5.

Insane Persons Kept At Expense Of State

All insane persons admitted to insane state institutions shall be maintained at the expense of the state; cost of clothing, transportation and other incidental expenses shall be defrayed by themselves or the county from which they are admitted.

Sec. 15.