A
certificate is valid only for seven days. In very urgent non-pauper
cases the signature of one medical man is sufficient, but such
certificate (_Emergency Certificate_ or _Urgency Order_) is only valid
for two days, and, as the patient can only be detained in the asylum
under this order for seven days in England or three in Scotland, it must
be supplemented by another signed as above directed. The medical
certificate must contain a statement that it is expedient for the
alleged lunatic to be placed forthwith under care, with reasons for
making such statement. The certifying medical practitioner must have
personally examined the patient not more than two clear days before his
reception. In London and other large towns, where an expert opinion is
readily obtainable, it is not expedient to resort to such urgency
orders. Medical men should be careful how they sign certificates of
insanity. No medical man is bound to certify, but if he does so he must
be prepared to take the responsibility of his acts. There must be no
reasonable ground for alleging want of 'good faith' or 'reasonable
care.' The practitioner must exercise that amount of care and skill
which he may reasonably be expected to possess.
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