36-3708. Annual examination of committed persons; report

A. The psychiatrist, psychologist or other competent professional of the state hospital or a licensed facility under the supervision of the superintendent of the Arizona state hospital shall annually examine each person who is committed pursuant to this article. The person who conducts the annual examination shall submit the examination report to the court. The annual report shall state if conditional release to a less restrictive alternative is in the best interest of the person and will adequately protect the community.

B. The person may retain, or on the request of an indigent person the court may appoint, a competent professional to conduct the examination. A retained or appointed competent professional shall have access to all records concerning the person. If the person retains or is appointed a competent professional, the state has the right to have the committed person evaluated by a competent professional of the state's own choice. All competent professionals shall have equal access to the person as well as all records concerning the person.

C. The court shall hold a hearing pursuant to section 36-3709 if any change of release conditions is recommended.