Crime ยท healthcare
Healthcare and mental health barristers, instructed directly.
For mental health, capacity and healthcare decisions, a barrister can advise patients and families and represent them.
At a glance
Mental Health Act
Detention, treatment and tribunal reviews.
Capacity and care
Decisions about care and a person's best interests.
Patients and families
Representation for patients, families and carers.
Healthcare law here covers mental health and the rights of patients, including detention under the Mental Health Act, tribunals reviewing detention, treatment decisions, and disputes with NHS bodies and local authorities about care. A barrister can advise patients, families and carers on their rights and represent them.
A barrister will explain the legal framework, the prospects and the options, and represent you at the Mental Health Tribunal and in related proceedings. Through Direct Access you can instruct a barrister directly, without going through a solicitor first.
Barristers are regulated by the Bar Standards Board.
Through Direct Access you can instruct a healthcare barrister directly, without going through a solicitor first. Barristers are regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB).
When to bring in a barrister
A relative has been detained under the Mental Health Act
You are challenging a treatment or care decision
You need representation at a Mental Health Tribunal
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Frequently asked questions
Can a barrister advise on a mental health matter directly?
Yes. Through Direct Access a barrister can advise you and represent you at the Mental Health Tribunal and in related proceedings, without going through a solicitor first.
What is the Mental Health Tribunal?
It is the body that reviews detention under the Mental Health Act and can order discharge. A barrister can represent a patient before it.
What does it cost?
Barristers often agree a fixed fee for advice or a hearing. There is no charge to enquire.
Related areas of law
Speak to a healthcare barrister
Tell us about your matter. There is no charge to enquire.