Mental Health Law (3rd edition) Book

This is a unique analysis of the interaction between the mental health system and the law in New Zealand. It provides extensive commentary and discussion on mental health law and practice and provides clear practical guidance on and understanding of complex clinical realities that arise in this area of legal and medical practice.

Since the second edition was published in 2005 there have been major legislative, common law and societal developments that impact mental health law.  The book has been restructured and has new content on social media and young people; the committal process and mental health advocacy.

Part One Introduction

1.   Alternative options to conventional psychiatric, including recovery and post-psychiatry 

Part Two Definitions

2.   Defining Mental Disorder

3.   Mental Impairment n the Criminal justice system

4 .  Young people

Part Three Process Issues

5.   The Committal Process 

6.   Community Care             

7.   Treatment         

8.   Right to refuse treatment & informed consent 

9.    Review process & habeas corpus

10.  Discharge           

11.  Role of Police    

12.  Mental Health Advocacy              

Part Four Rights

13.   The United Nations Convention On The Rights Of Persons With Disabilities

14.    Patients’ Rights and Available Complaints Mechanisms

15.    Privacy and confidentiality

16.   The Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988              

Table of Statutes and Regulations

Table of Cases

Subject Index