The Mental Health Act Code of Practice has recently been published. Its introduction has been discreet, low-key and virtually unnoticed. Yet in a quiet and determined way it points out the direction that all professionals involved in the case of mentally disordered people must now anticipate. It has a smart, blue cover and is eminently ‘user-friendly’. Its contents will make it essential reading. Indeed it would not be an exaggeration to suggest that it might soon be any ambitious lawyer's pocket vade mecum as he prepares his case. Its arrival has been anticipated since 1983. There have been a few miscarriages on the way which probably explains why its mother finally consented to artificial insemination techniques and conceived of her Code without formal consultation with its potential fathers.