This covers clients who are unable to make important decisions because of a disability, or who have a mental illness.
We have over 20 years experience in looking after clients who have these problems.
It is necessary to undergo specialist training to practice in this area of Law, and Paul Stevenson has been authorised to do so by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
We are able to help anyone who is made to stay in hospital under the compulsory powers under the Mental Health Act 1983. Furthermore, we are happy to advise those who are in a hospital, but are there informally. Additionally, many former patients are under what is now called a Community Treatment Order, whilst living in the community.
We are able to represent all clients at the Mental Health Review Tribunal, and indeed at the more informal Hospital Manager’s Hearings.
If a person is made to stay in hospital under the compulsory powers of the Mental Health Act, the Tribunal has the power to require them to be allowed to leave straight away or at sometime in the future. If they do not do that, the Tribunal still has the power to make recommendations about a patient’s future care in hospital, and suggest a change in the arrangements for the patient being able to leave the hospital for temporary periods. These recommendations alone are very often of great benefit and help to the patient.
The work which we do is paid for out of public funds, in almost all cases. No-one who takes a case to the Mental Health Tribunal ever has to pay for it themselves.
If you think that we might be able to help, please do not hesitate to contact Paul Stevenson.