Giving Evidence at a Mental Health Tribunal: A Professionals’ Handbook

This practical and accessibly written guide introduces what practitioners need to know about Mental Health Tribunals, covering the status of the tribunal, its processes, and the evidence that is required from witnesses. Members of the multidisciplinary team in mental healthcare may have a legal duty to provide oral and written evidence at First-Tier Tribunals (mental health). The tribunal acts as a key safeguard in the provision of mental health care under the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended 2007) and it is important that all clinicians contributing evidence understand their role and responsibilities. Helping readers to understand what is required of them as witnesses, and to appreciate the extent of the tribunal’s powers, this book provides invaluable information about expected best practice and relevant skills, such as distinguishing between an informed opinion and conjecture. This text is an essential reference for mental health practitioners and students from a range of professions, including nursing, social work, law, occupational therapy, medicine, and psychology.