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Introduction
 
IntroductionMental health caseMental health case:meaningMental health caseMental health case:meaningMental health case
10.1This chapter deals with the funding of mental health cases, and should be read alongside chapters 3, 4 and 5. In this chapter we set out the rules specific to mental health work. You should note that most of those rules are in addition to and build on the general rules applicable to all civil work, set out in chapters 3 and 5. There is no specific costs guidance for mental health work, but see appendix H for a summary of costs issues applicable to all civil work.
10.2However some issues arising from the representation of those with mental health issues may be relevant for uplift of costs;1Costs Assessment Guidance 2013 para 12.8. and in addition the payment of examination of records, for example in Mental Capacity Act cases, may be possible notwithstanding the same examination by experts instructed.2Costs Assessment Guidance 2013 para 2.14. Further assistance in relation to mental health billing is to be found through published guidance available through the Legal Aid Agency Mental Health Unit.3Mental Health Common Errors – February 2015. This document was supplied as ‘required reading’ to all mental contract holders by John Sirodcar, Head of Contract Management, in February 2015.
10.3New peer review guidance to work in this field has now been published by Legal Aid Agency to be found at www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/556275/improving-your-quality-guide-mental-health.pdf. In addition invaluable guidance as to attendance and appropriate work is to be found in the Law Society’s Practice Note on Mental Health Tribunals at www.lawsociety.org.uk/support-services/advice/practice-notes/archive/representation-before-mental-health-tribunals/
 
1     Costs Assessment Guidance 2013 para 12.8. »
2     Costs Assessment Guidance 2013 para 2.14. »
3     Mental Health Common Errors – February 2015. This document was supplied as ‘required reading’ to all mental contract holders by John Sirodcar, Head of Contract Management, in February 2015. »
Introduction
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