Arcright Legal Articles & Guides
At Arcright Legal, we believe knowledge is power. Being detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 can be confusing and overwhelming — for patients and their families. Our articles are designed to give you clear, practical explanations of your rights, what the law means in practice, and how we can help.
Whether you want to understand the difference between Section 2 and Section 3, learn about your rights to appeal to the Mental Health Tribunal, or find out how a nearest relative can request discharge, our guides are here to help.
All our content is written by Mental Health Panel-accredited solicitors, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Why You Should Read This Article:
Being detained under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act can feel overwhelming. This article explains exactly what Section 2 means, how long you can be detained, your rights to discharge and appeal, and how our solicitors can help you at a Mental Health Tribunal.
Why You Should Read This Article:
Being detained under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act means longer-term hospital treatment, which can be daunting for both patients and families. This article explains how long Section 3 lasts, who has the power to discharge you, your rights to appeal to the Mental Health Tribunal, and what happens afterwards — including Community Treatment Orders (CTOs). It’s essential reading if you want to understand your options and protect your rights.
Section 2 vs Section 3: Mental Health Act Guide
Understanding the difference between Section 2 and Section 3 of the Mental Health Act is essential if you or a loved one has been detained. This quick guide explains how long each section lasts, who can discharge you, your Tribunal rights, and what happens afterwards — giving you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. We pride ourselves on our adaptability and commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service. Explore what we have to offer and how we can contribute to your success.
Why You Should Read This Article:
Many people don’t realise there is an important difference between being admitted to hospital voluntarily and being detained or “sectioned” under the Mental Health Act. This article explains the key differences in rights, treatment, and discharge — helping patients and families understand what each status means in practice, and when legal advice may be needed.