The full facts need to be known in the tragic case of Sarah Lawson who was killed by her father after he felt she was desperate to end her life.

James Lawson from Worthing pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility during a Crown Court case.

Evidence was given that Sarah had a long history of mental illness and drink problems. She had previously tried to kill herself.

Her mother Karen has threatened to sue Worthing Priority Care NHS Trust for failing her daughter.

But the trust has promised to hold an independent inquiry and it would be much better for the family to wait and see what that concludes before resorting to law.

The trust says it tried constantly to help Sarah with her problems.

Only independent experts in mental health will be able to sort out the truth in this case, which could have implications for many other patients with mental illness.

People with severe mental problems such as Sarah are notoriously difficult to treat and can be unpredictable.

What's essential is that the families, as well as the patients themselves, are given full help and information during these most gruelling times.