The current Mental Health Act, amending the 1983 Act, was passed in 2007 is being reviewed for future updating at this time. The current Mental Capacity Act was passed in 2005 has been fully operational since early 2010.Together they represented major changes in how mental health professionals should care for their patients, reflecting the shift from institutional to community care that has taken place since 1983. Crucially the Mental Health Act redefined mental disorder, removed the so-called 'treatability' test and introduced compulsory treatment in the community.These and other changes have caused great controversy prompting the current review, but there is a need to understand what it means for the individual practitioner NOW when making decisions about the care of individual patients. Essential Mental Health Law is the practical guide that will provide this understanding. Neutral on the wrongs and rights of current legislation, it sets the controversy on one side to help psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers and patients/families with the day to day application of the law in clinical practice. Non-specialist lawyers will also find it invaluable.