united-kingdom mental-health
What is the likelihood of successfully suing a psychologist for detaining you under the Mental Health Act (UK)
<p>My friend was sectioned (= committed) some years ago by two social workers and a psychologist. He now believes it was unjust and wants to &quot;clear his name&quot;.</p>
<p>I have advised him to drop it because it will be his word against a psychologist's report, but he thinks he has to try. He is a homeless chap. He has no money, and although he speaks well, most people treat him poorly.</p>
<p>I think he has no chance. Am I correct in this assumption, or is there some route?</p>

<p>You would need to prove that clinical mistakes were made. Since your friend's mental state has now changed and it is likely impossible for another psychologist to determine what it was at the time he was sectioned, that seems extremely difficult to do. Unless there is some evidence, such as an evaluation made at the time by another psychologist or evidence that the psychologist and/or social workers lied or make mistakes, I don't think your friend has much chance.</p>
