Back to Mental Health Act
Section 2/3 Reviews
Section 2 and 3 reviews determine whether the legal criteria for a patient’s compulsory admission and detention under the Mental Health Act 1983 are fulfilled. These reports provide a clinical evidence base to support or challenge the necessity of hospital-based assessment or treatment.
Overview
When this report is required
- Section 2 Discharge Requests are made when a patient or Nearest Relative challenges a 28-day assessment order
- Section 3 Renewal Hearings occur when a long-term treatment order is being considered for extension beyond the initial six months
- Hospital Manager Hearings require independent evidence to decide if the grounds for detention continue to exist
- Reclassification Applications are necessary when a patient’s diagnosis or legal status changes during their hospital stay
What the expert assesses
- Presence of a mental disorder
- Risk to patient health or safety
- Protection of other persons
- Appropriateness of medical treatment
- Availability of less restrictive community alternatives
Report specification
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Assessment Setting | Hospital, Clinic, Secure Ward, Remote |
| Court Acceptance | Crown Court, Magistrates’ Court |
| Compliance | CPR Part 35 |
CPR Part 35 Compliant
Digital Delivery
Urgent Instructions
Specialist expertise
Adult Psychiatrists
Forensic Psychiatrists
Nurse Consultants
While these are the primary specialists engaged for this instruction type, please note that every case turns on
its own facts. Complex or multi-disciplinary cases may require a bespoke team of experts. Our case managers will
review your specific instruction to ensure the correct clinical match.