Court of Protection

If someone you care about has lost the ability to manage their finances, it can feel overwhelming. You may not know where to start or what steps to take.

If there is no Lasting Power of Attorney in place, our Court of Protection lawyers are here to guide you through the process. We explain things clearly, help you apply for Deputyship, and make sure your loved one’s interests are protected.

Speak to a Court of Protection Lawyer today

If you would like to talk to us about our Court of Protection services or book an appointment, call us on 020 8865 1560 or fill in our contact form to arrange a conversation.

What is a Deputy in the Court of Protection?

A Deputy is someone appointed by the Court of Protection to manage a person’s finances when they can no longer do this themselves.

This usually applies where there is no Lasting Power of Attorney in place.

Once appointed, a deputy can:

• Manage bank accounts and savings
• Pay bills and day-to-day expenses
• Look after investments
• Make decisions about buying, selling, or maintaining a property

Deputies must always act in the person’s best interests and keep clear records of their decisions.

When is Deputyship needed?

Deputyship is usually needed when someone has lost their mental capacity due to illness, dementia, or a serious injury, and has not made a Lasting Power of Attorney.

If this happens, nobody automatically has the legal authority to manage their finances. An application must be made to the Court of Protection. This is often done by a family member or a close friend.

If you are worried about a loved one

You might be concerned that someone is struggling to manage their finances, or unsure about decisions being made on their behalf.

We can help you understand your options and, where appropriate, guide you through applying to the Court of Protection to put the right arrangements in place. Call us on 020 8865 1560 or fill in our contact form and we will get back to you.

Deputyship and Lasting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) must be set up while someone still has mental capacity. It allows a person to choose who will make decisions for them in the future.

Deputyship is different. It applies when capacity has already been lost and no LPA is in place. The Court appoints a Deputy to take on this role.

If there is no Property and Financial Affairs LPA, an application for Deputyship is usually the next step.

How we can help

Our Court of Protection lawyers support individuals and families dealing with Deputyship and related matters.

We help families and individuals with:

• Explaining your responsibilities as a Deputy
• Applying for Deputyship through the Court of Protection

We take the time to explain everything clearly, so you understand what to expect at each stage.

If you would like to find out how we can help you, please contact us on 020 8865 1560.

About our Court of Protection Lawyers

Our Private Client team is based in our Crystal Palace and West Wickham offices. We also offer appointments at our Bromley office. We offer face-to-face meetings, telephone, and video call appointments. Home and Hospital visits are available upon request.

Talk to us about Deputyship

If you need help or would like to discuss your situation, please call us on 020 8865 1560 or fill in our contact form. We’re here to help you take the next step.