Section 1951 Of Chapter 6. Sterilization From California Probate Code >> Division 4. >> Part 3. >> Chapter 6.
1951
. (a) No person who has the ability to consent to his or her
sterilization shall be sterilized pursuant to this chapter.
(b) For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms have the
meanings given:
(1) "Consent to sterilization" means making a voluntary decision
to undergo sterilization after being fully informed about, and after
fully understanding the nature and consequences of, sterilization.
(2) "Voluntary" means performed while competent to make the
decision, and as a matter of free choice and will and not in response
to coercion, duress, or undue influence.
(3) "Fully understanding the nature and consequences of
sterilization," includes, but is not limited to, the ability to
understand each of the following:
(A) That the individual is free to withhold or withdraw consent to
the procedure at any time before the sterilization without affecting
the right to future care or treatment and without loss or withdrawal
of any publicly funded program benefits to which the individual
might be otherwise entitled.
(B) Available alternative methods of family planning and birth
control.
(C) That the sterilization procedure is considered to be
irreversible.
(D) The specific sterilization procedure to be performed.
(E) The discomforts and risks that may accompany or follow the
performing of the procedure, including an explanation of the type and
possible effects of any anesthetic to be used.
(F) The benefits or advantages that may be expected as a result of
the sterilization.
(G) The approximate length of the hospital stay.
(H) The approximate length of time for recovery.
(c) The court shall appoint a facilitator or interpreter if such a
person's assistance would enable the person named in the petition to
understand any of these factors.