Failure to notify a lawyer of a hearing for a mentally ill client constitutes a denial of defense rights under Polish law.

The Supreme Court quashed the lower court's decision regarding a veteran's disability pension due to procedural violations. Although the applicant appeared personally at the hearing, the court found that his lawyer, representing a client with mental health issues, was not notified and thus could not participate. The court ruled that failing to notify the lawyer equates to depriving the client of their right to defense, rendering the proceedings void. Consequently, the case was remanded for a new trial to ensure proper procedural safeguards.