Art. 1415 Burden of proof; order

If a minor goes through this process, the judge has to decide whether hospitalization is really needed. To order continued confinement, the judge must find strong and convincing proof of two things: the minor has a mental illness or a serious substance abuse problem, and inpatient treatment would actually help them.

If the judge makes both findings, the law requires sending the minor to a treatment facility that fits their medical needs. The facility also has to be the option that limits the minor's freedom as little as possible while still providing the right care. This means the court cannot choose a more restrictive placement if a less restrictive one would work just as well.

In short, this rule protects minors from being held in a hospital or treatment center unless the evidence clearly shows it's necessary and helpful. It also makes sure that even when confinement is ordered, the minor is placed somewhere that respects their freedom as much as possible.