The Objects of the Mental Health Lawyers Association are “to encourage and maintain the highest standard of preparation, representation and practice in relation to mental health and mental capacity law, to participate in discussions on developments in the areas of mental health and mental capacity law, and to represent the interests of members of the Association”.
The Association’s committee has adopted the following Code of Conduct. Annual renewal of membership requires agreement that the Code will be followed.
Members must act in accordance with all relevant professional guidance and requirements, including those of the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Legal Aid Agency and the Law Society. When visiting any hospital or other place, members must comply with any reasonable requirements imposed by the management of that place.
If there is a dispute over which firm should represent a patient then this should be resolved via an independent third party rather than by visiting the patient again, as it is often the more impressionable and vulnerable patients who find themselves in this situation.
Members of the Association must at all times:
- Act with integrity and honesty.
- Demonstrate respect and courtesy.
- Maintain client confidentiality.
- Treat everyone fairly, regardless of background.
- Commit to professional development.
- Support the Objects of the Association.
- Collaborate and share knowledge.
- Act responsibly.
The Association is a representative body, not a regulatory body, and so does not regulate the conduct of members. The Association encourages any concerns or complaints to be raised initially with the individuals involved, then, if necessary, to be raised with the appropriate regulatory or oversight body.
August 2026