Diane Hallatt

Before joining the Health Service in 1986, Diane Hallatt practised in local government, advising a large social services department, in issues concerning children and the elderly. She now specialises in all aspects of health service law. 

Formerly with Trent Regional Health Authority until the legal department was privatised, she has extensive knowledge of clinical negligence, Judicial Review, corporate and clinical governance, the Mental Health Act, coroners’ inquests, the Children Act, complaints handling, professional and ethical issues, serious untoward incidents, performers list issues, care in the community and Foundation Trusts.

In relation to mental health issues, Diane has been advising in this field of law for 22 years, both for the NHS and Social Services. 

She gives day-to-day support to several large mental health trusts, providing telephone and written advice to RMO’s, hospital managers and MHA administrators. She has been involved in MHRT hearings, habeas corpus applications and judicial reviews, and currently sits as a part-time legal chair of Tribunals. 

Her work in this field regularly includes supporting trusts and their staff during homicide inquiries, including advising on draft reports, as well as advising Health Authorities on the process, terms of reference etc.

Diane has experience of a wide range of health service and public administrative law/corporate governance issues, and has defended several Judicial Reviews - the latest including challenges to funding criteria decisions, and SS7 and 11 public and patient consultation.

She has been closely involved in several high profile SUI’s and public inquiries including Hillsborough, Allitt, Jenkinson, Plemming and Shipman, and has co-ordinated several incidents and class actions such as cervical screening.

Endorsements

"Based in Leeds, Diane Hallatt has a broad healthcare practice, covering clinical negligence, judicial review and clinical governance. Over a distinguished career, she has established herself as one of this market's foremost players." Chambers and Partners UK 2014 Edition, Healthcare, UK Wide

"Diane Hallatt is a vastly experienced healthcare practitioner whose expertise covers the full spectrum of healthcare law. She is particularly highly regarded for her work in the mental health field." Chambers and Partners UK 2013 Edition, Healthcare UK Wide