We know how distressing it can be if you or someone you care about are affected by mental health difficulties. Our specialist team is committed to providing a skilled and sympathetic service.
Detention in Hospital, Discharge and Services to people with Mental Health difficulties living in the Community
If you are detained under a Section of the Mental Health Act and are unhappy about it we can help you whether you are in hospital or in the community. We can also advise you if you are in hospital on an informal (voluntary) basis and have concerns about your treatment.
Many detained patients will have the right to apply for discharge to the First Tier Tribunal (Mental Health) or to ask the Hospital Managers to consider their case. Our lawyers are experienced advocates able to represent you before Tribunals and at Hospital Manager’s Meetings.
Before discharge from hospital we will always discuss with you whether you need any assistance or help from social services to support you in the community and consider whether you need any Welfare Benefit advice. If appropriate we will arrange for one of our specialist lawyers to take up this aspect of your case.
Nearest Relatives and other Family Members.
If you are worried about a family member who has mental health difficulties we can advise as to the best ways of getting them the help they need. We can advise individuals on their rights as Nearest Relatives, and represent them if an application is made to the court for their displacement.
The Court of Protection and Lasting Powers of Attorney
If you have a family member who is unable to make decisions about their own welfare or property and affairs we can advise you and if necessary represent you on an application to the Court of Protection to enable you to make the necessary decisions on their behalf. We can also represent individuals and their family members where Social Services have made an application to the Court of Protection in respect of their welfare.
We can also help you plan for your own future. If you are concerned that you may, at some stage, lose the capacity to make your own decisions we can prepare a Lasting Power of Attorney on your behalf.