Mental Health: Patients
UK Guide 2025 : UK-wide
Band 2
About
Provided by David Gray Solicitors
David Gray Solicitors has the largest team of specialist Mental Health solicitors in the North East led by Partner and Head of Department Emma Silburn. The team provide advice in relation to all aspects of the Mental Health Act (MHA) 1983, and represent patients before the Mental Health Tribunal and Hospital Managers.
The team consists of five Law Society Mental Health Tribunal Panel accredited representatives. Due to the size of the team they are able to represent patients across the North, from Middlesbrough to Newcastle to Barrow-in-Furness and everywhere in between. They are able to visit those detained in Hospital under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act 1983 within 24 hours of contact, and within 48 hours for those detained under Section 3.
they also represent the Nearest Relatives of those detained under the Act and advise on their rights and responsibilities.
Chambers Review
David Gray Solicitors has a specialist team of highly regarded mental health lawyers. The firm represents vulnerable individuals and families on IMHA tribunals and contentious treatment decisions. Lawyers at David Gray are praised for their Mental Health Act expertise and handling of Section 21a challenges.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The team is knowledgeable, supportive of clients and prompt to respond to queries."
"They see my clients within a reasonable timeframe and prepare and explain their case well in an understandable manner. They are non-judgemental regarding clients' complex mental health conditions."
"The team is knowledgeable, supportive of clients and prompt to respond to queries."
"They see my clients within a reasonable timeframe and prepare and explain their case well in an understandable manner. They are non-judgemental regarding clients' complex mental health conditions."
Notable Practitioners
Emma Silburn is head of David Gray Solicitors' mental health and Court of Protection departments. She is recognised for her knowledge of the Mental Health Act and Mental Capacity Act, often representing vulnerable clients in matters involving detention.
"Approachable and always there to provide advice. She is good with her clients and speaks in a manner which suits each individual. She is knowledgeable and can handle the most complex cases."
"She is extremely professional and honest with clients. She is diverse in her approach and will adapt this to suit the client. She has extensive knowledge in the MCA and MHA and is very approachable."
"Emma is an excellent member of the team. She is very knowledgeable and person-centred."
Paul Harbison is a senior associate who specialises in mental health law. He provides support to vulnerable adults and young people on a wide range of contentious matters in the area.
"Mr Harbison provides excellent representation for his clients at tribunals."
"Paul is professional, knowledgeable and supportive of clients."