Children's rights: for or against treatment.

The authors discuss legal issues which bear on the provision of mental health services for children; in particular, the dilemma of balancing the child's right to protection and autonomy with his/her right to competent, compassionate treatment. The role of the mental health professional in court and the role of the law in children's mental health facilities are examined. The authors suggest that the growing dialogue between lawyers and mental health professionals has already helped to clarify important legal and service issues.