Bournewood case

The Bournewood case involved a man with mental health issues who was kept in a hospital-like setting against his will without formal detention procedures, because he lacked the capacity to consent or refuse treatment. This raised legal questions about the legality of de facto detention—being held without proper legal process. The case led to the development of "deprivation of liberty" protections under UK law, ensuring that even individuals who cannot consent are protected from arbitrary detention, and clarified the legal standards necessary when detaining someone without formal hospital admission.