Mental Health Law in New Zealand

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.

Includes: Alternative options to conventional psychiatric, including recovery and post-psychiatry; Defining Mental Disorder; Mental Impairment in the Criminal justice system; Young people; The Committal Process; Community Care; Treatment; Right to refuse treatment & informed consent; Review process & habeas corpus; Discharge; Role of Police; Mental Health Advocacy; The United Nations Convention On The Rights Of Persons With Disabilities; Patients Rights and Available Complaints Mechanisms; Privacy and confidentiality; The Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.