The person with a mental incapacity has a right to be represented in any hearing of the Guardianship Board by a lawyer or approved advocate at her or his own expense. Other people attending may, with the consent of the Board, bring a lawyer or approved advocate. Approval of advocates other than lawyers comes from the Board. Contact the Board for further information about approved advocates.

In appeal against Board orders and in certain Mental Health Act 1993 hearings, the person with a mental incapacity has a right to free legal representation. Contact the Board for further details on the free legal representation scheme.

All people are encouraged to bring a relative or friend to provide personal support if they wish. However, in most Board hearings a legal representative is not essential. Board proceedings are less formal and less complicated than court proceedings. The Board will speak directly with the people attending and will allow all people with an interest in the matter to express their opinions.