Michael Butler

Michael Butler is an Associate Professor in Mental Health Law and an Honorary Associate Professor at Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia. His work bridges legal scholarship and psychiatric policy, focusing on the rights and treatment of individuals with mental health conditions, autism, and learning disabilities within the justice and healthcare systems.

Research Interests: His research primarily explores the intersection of law and mental health, with a focus on sentencing, legislative reform (particularly the Mental Health Bill 2025), and the legal implications for neurodiverse populations. He investigates how legal frameworks impact vulnerable individuals and advocates for equitable, evidence-based policy.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in analyzing current and proposed mental health legislation in England and Wales, especially regarding unintended consequences for people with autism and learning disabilities. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration between legal experts, clinicians, carers, and patients.

Scientific Contributions:

• Co-authored influential articles in Medical Law International and The British Journal of Psychiatry.
• Active contributor to policy discourse through consensus statements involving professionals and carers.

Michael Butler collaborates extensively with clinicians, legal scholars, and advocacy groups. His research outputs suggest active engagement in national conversations on mental health law reform, though specific grants, students, or lab affiliations are not mentioned in the provided text.