This text provides a readable, detailed and comprehensive account of the law in relation to community care. This book includes information on the new statutory framework and the different institutional and legal entities which have emerged as a consequence of the discharge of patients from institutional care. Wherever possible, examples of actual situations will be used to illustrate the legal issues taken from the full range of community professionals and situations with carers and clients. This book is a must for all students of healthcare, social service and health professionals, and all managers working in the community.