Legal Terms – Hospital Order

An order issued by the Crown Court or a magistrates’ court authorising the detention of an offender suffering from a mental disorder in a designated hospital for treatment. Initially valid for six months, the order may be renewed by hospital managers.
Unless a restriction order is also imposed, discharge may be granted by hospital authorities, the responsible clinician, or directed by the Mental Health Tribunal. Hospital orders are made under section 37 of the Mental Health Act 1983.