(a) The court shall hear medical, social, educational, residential and psychological evidence including but not limited to testimony of the panel appointed under section 45a-695 , as to whether such sterilization is in the best interest of the individual. The respondent or his counsel shall have the right to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses who testify at the hearing.
(b) The court shall give its consent to sterilization only if it finds by clear and convincing evidence that such operation or procedure is in the best interests of the individual and shall furnish findings to support its conclusion.