Paul Harbison

I am a Senior Associate Solicitor specialising in Mental Health Law. I hold specialist accreditation with the Law Society’s Mental Health Accreditation Scheme.

I offer advice and representation to Patients detained under the Mental Health Act or who are subject to Community Treatment Orders. I have a great deal of experience in advising and representing patients at:

• Mental Health Tribunals
• Hospital Managers Hearings
• Review Meetings
• Care Programme Approach meetings

I always ensure that my clients’ cases are progressed in the best possible way.

In addition, I also advise the Nearest Relatives of detained patients as to their rights under the Mental Health Act and have acted for the relatives of patients who are the subject of proceedings to remove or “displace” them as a patient’s Nearest Relative.

I have a sympathetic approach and will listen carefully to what you want to achieve and fight for you. I will always offer measured, honest advice, explained in the most straightforward way possible.

Clients who come to see me are often going through a stressful time in their life and I believe that clear understandable advice is paramount.

I studied law at Northumbria University and I graduated in 2007 with an LLB (Hons) Exempting degree which combines the Legal Practice Course into a 4 year Law degree . I have worked at David Gray Solicitors LLP since 2009. I trained at the firm and qualified as a solicitor in 2014. I specialised in criminal and mental health law until 2019, I now work solely in the mental health department.

Find out more about Paul and his role in our ‘A cuppa with’ series.

I am recognised in Chambers and Partners as ‘An Associate to watch‘ in the UK 2025 guide.