The mentally ill patient has many rights provided to them by our legal system:
- They have the right to treated with dignity and respect.
- They have the right to communicate with people outside of the hospital.
- They have the right to keep clothing and personal effects with them
- They have the right to religious freedom.
- They have the right to be employed.
- They have the right to manage property.
- They have the right to execute wills.
- They have the right to enter into contractual agreements.
- They have the right to make purchases.
- They have the right to education.
- They have the right to habeas corpus (written request for release from hospital).
- They have the right to an independent psychiatric examination.
- They have the right to civil service status, including the right to vote.
- They have the right to retain licenses, privileges or permits.
- They have the right to sue or be sued.
- They have the right to marry or divorce.
- They have the right to treatment in the least restrictive setting.
- They have the right to not be subject to unnecessary restraints.
- They have the right to privacy and confidentiality.
- They have the right to informed consent.
- They have the right to treatment and to refuse treatment.
- They have the right to refuse participation in experimental treatments or
research.