The Mental Health Act requires that a facility such as a hospital send a written notice to a near relative immediately after a patient's admission, discharge or an application for a review panel hearing. The patient needs to choose a near relative using Form 15: Nomination of Near Relative. If the patient does not or cannot choose one, the hospital will choose one or send the notice to the Public Guardian or Trustee if there is no information.

A near relative can be a grandfather, grandmother, father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, friend caregiver or companion designated by you. A near relative can also be a legal guardian or a minor and a committee having custody of you under the Patients Property Act. A common law spouse or same sex partner is considered a near relative. In addition, a near relative could also include a representative you name in a representation agreement.

Information on website for:

- Are family members given notice of a review panel hearing?
- What is the role of family and friends at a hearing?
- Role of an observer
- Role of a witness
- Role of a patient representative
- Evidence