Irwin Mitchell fields a large and long established team that ‘provides excellent client care’ in both property and affairs as well as health and welfare matters. Lucy Nicol and Yogi Amin lead a team of ‘high quality individuals’ that supports more than 1,500 clients nationwide and in excess of 1,250 deputyships. It is ‘full of talented individuals’ who advise on all aspects of court of protection from litigated best interests disputes to powers of attorney. In addition it acts as professional deputy or trustee on many complex high-value cases involving multi-million pound funds and manages in excess of £1.5bn of protected parties assets. Its public law and human rights team helps clients on many issues such as where a person should live or serious medical treatment matters. Angela Jackman KC joined the team from Simpson Millar LLP. The firm ‘deserves its excellent reputation in this area as clients receive a comprehensive, efficient and highly professional service’, not least from experienced practitioners Damian Hodkinson and Joanna Grewer.
Court of protection in London
Irwin Mitchell
Responsables de la pratique:
Lucinda Nicol; Yogi Amin
Autres avocats clés:
Angela Jackman KC; Mathieu Culverhouse; Kirsty Stuart; Damian Hodkinson; Gillian Hitchen; Katie Thackray; Elizabeth Perry; Katie Strong; Charlotte Waite; Helen Smith; Joanna Grewer
Les références
‘Irwin Mitchell is undoubtedly the leading Court of Protection team in the Country. They are pioneering in the way in which they streamline the service and support they give to clients. Their structure enables them to manage every aspect of their client’s affairs in a cost-effective manner’.
‘The Court of Protection team at Irwin Mitchell in Birmingham is exceptional. They look after their underlying clients with care and compassion, ably supporting them as they navigate the challenges of their individual situations. Jo Grewer is a compassionate Deputy on behalf of individuals, whilst also being an expert in her field and being very efficient in how she handles cases’.
‘Irwin Mitchell has a large team doing welfare cases throughout their network of offices. This is a huge asset and means the team is able to share expertise and help each other out in a way that is far more difficult for those in smaller practices.’
Principaux clients
Amy McLennan
Respond Charity
Institute of Registered Case Managers
Lawrence Knight
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Ami McClennan in high profile proceedings concerning the issue of whether it was in the best interests of her son, William Verden, to undergo a kidney transplant.
- Represented the charity Respond in the Supreme Court case of JB, concerning the test for capacity to engage in sexual relations.
- Represented the Institute of Registered Case Managers in the Court of Appeal case of Secretary of State for Justice v A Local Authority & Others, concerning the issue of whether it is lawful for care workers to assist clients in securing the services of sex workers.
Thomson Snell & Passmore
‘The breadth and depth of experience’ at Thomson Snell & Passmore and ‘specialist expertise that is combined with a sympathetic, empathetic and clear sighted support’ make this team ‘one of the standout Court of Protection teams in the country’. It acts as deputy in over 250 cases with an estimated value of over £350m in assets. It is renowned as experts in property and affairs cases especially with high-value catastrophic injury claims. In addition, it continuously advises on capacity issues and frequently acts as an expert witness on such cases. Another core area of expertise is dealing with numerous high-value personal injury trusts where the partners act as trustees with an estimated value exceeding £40m. Brian Bacon receives many plaudits and is ‘incredibly calm and reassuring with clients and their families’. Overall it has 'a well-resourced, high calibre team from partner to paralegal level'.
Autres avocats clés:
Brian Bacon; Rosie Hamlyn; Catherine Fuller; Tom Hall
Les références
‘The team at Thomson Snell & Passmore all works diligently to ensure communication is replied to promptly. They have built a good working relationship with their client and his family which ensures the smooth running of daily life which was of utmost importance to us. If any of them is away we are still able to have someone to communicate with should any issues arise’.
‘The individuals have been brilliant. Due to the unique case developments, we have had a lot of close contact with Brian Bacon, head of the department. He and his team have put a lot of personal time, care and energy to ensure that we are always in the best position. Brian takes responsibility and leads by example‘.
‘The Court of Protection team at TSP is absolutely excellent and I frequently recommend them to clients looking for a deputy. They are delightful to deal with, very meticulous and competent in every respect. Brian Bacon who heads the team is excellent and has trained all his team very well too’.
Withers LLP
Withers LLP is ‘well known and well-regarded’ for its ‘excellent work with the internationally wealthy’. Praised for being ‘at the absolute top of the tree – from partners down to trainees, the team oozes quality’. It works with families and appointed representatives of older and vulnerable people and regularly acts for trustees, executors, charities and other professional groups. In addition it advises on disabled trusts and advance decisions to refuse medical treatment (living wills). Julia Abrey is particularly known for her elder law expertise and is ‘smart, creative and energetic’. The ‘phenomenal’ Stephen Richards co-heads the team and is a ‘very clever operator and a very nice guy to boot’. Paul Hewitt is adept at handling trust, estate and inheritance disputes. It is a ‘responsive, friendly and hugely knowledgeable’ group that is ‘truly the leader in the field when it comes to high end and bespoke mental capacity advice, particularly when it has a cross-border element’.
Responsables de la pratique:
Julia Abrey; Stephen Richards
Autres avocats clés:
Paul Hewitt; Natasha Stourton; Alice Tomlin
Les références
‘The Court of Protection team specialises in high-net-worth individuals often with multi-jurisdictional assets and complex family dynamics. Julia Abrey’s energy and commitment to getting the best outcome for her clients is impressive. Her elder law specialty practice in the UK is unique’.
‘My team at Withers LLP has supported me successfully through two Court of protection cases. Their vast knowledge of the processes and possible outcomes gave me the confidence to embark on these endeavours without any concerns. Their huge collective experience meant that my objectives were reached through their utter professionalism’.
‘I have known Julia Abrey and Alice Tomlin for many years now. Over these years I have felt utterly supported by each of them professionally and the thing that has been outstanding to me is the way in which they have each made every dealing with me a personal one too. I have felt able to reach out to them about many things and I cannot thank them enough’.
Abbotstone Law
Abbotstone Law has a ‘busy and efficient team that does excellent work’ with Francesca Gabbitas at the helm. It fields a ‘team of experts in mental capacity and mental health law’ that is adept at helping clients where there is a crossover between mental capacity and complex mental health issues. It represents vulnerable adults and family members in health and welfare Court of Protection proceedings and receives regular instructions from the Official Solicitor on Section 21A applications as well as acting in best interests cases relating to decisions about P’s residence and care. At a senior level Kate Luscombe and Andrea Spyrou receive many plaudits.
Responsables de la pratique:
Francesca Gabbitas
Autres avocats clés:
Kate Luscombe; Andrea Spyrou; Angela Smith; Rhiannon Jones
Les références
‘An exceptionally knowledgeable, thoughtful and diligent team. Whenever I am instructed I am confident that the lawyer involved will be skilful and organised. I never have to chase for things or check whether something has been done. They clearly dedicate time and thoughtfulness into all their cases.’
‘Andrea Spyrou – goes the extra mile in cases, has a passion for the work and seeks the best for the client. Kate Luscombe – impressive attention to detail and clearly identifies the salient issues in her cases. Angela Smith – impeccable knowledge of Court of Protection work’.
‘Infinite and up to date knowledge on all matters pertaining to mental health and the Court of Protection. Rhiannon Jones is a beacon in the field of Court of Protection. Her knowledge and expertise is valued and widely recognised amongst other legal professionals and the judiciary’.
Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP
Donna Holmes leads the court of protection team at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP that delivers tailored financial deputy and welfare services to over 190 clients. The group acts for those who lack capacity and have received high-value catastrophic injury settlements but also for some who have state benefits only. It manages over £75m of assets (as the end of 2021). Many of its cases are intertwined health and welfare, property and financial matters. In addition it is frequently appointed as interim panel deputy as part of ongoing proceedings, increasingly where investigations are required into past dealings of potentially abusive attorneys or deputies. The group is also regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor.
Responsables de la pratique:
Donna Holmes
Autres avocats clés:
Douglas Houghton
Les références
‘Anthony Collins provides a personal and professional service to its clients. They are an ethical firm where, from what I can see, profit does not come before client care’.
‘Donna and Doug are the key members of the team that I work with. Donna leads by example and takes the time needed to get to know her clients and ensure they are well looked after’.
‘The Court of Protection team is one of the strongest in the Midlands with an enviable reputation for providing caring and cost-effective support to its clients’.
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for AC to be urgently appointed as both finance and welfare Deputy for his partner following a significant medical incident whilst residing in China.
- Supported a client initially judged to lack capacity and with an appointed Deputy with whom he was no longer willing to work with.
- Represented JB in a contested application regarding her brother’s residence where the Local Authority and sister disagreed that quality of life would be improved if he was closer to JB’s home.
Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP
Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP fields a ‘very committed and hardworking’ team under the superb leadership of Alexandra Knipe and David Wedgwood. Wedgwood is a well-respected practitioner who excels in both financial and welfare related litigation in the Court of Protection and receives a steady flow of referrals from the Official Solicitor, local authorities and other lawyers. Knipe is responsible for the team that deals with deputyships that arise from complex personal injury and clinical negligence cases - she continues to act on cases with an international dimension too. Donovan Lindsay was promoted to the partnership in 2021 and Emma Tante has also recently been promoted to the partnership.
Responsables de la pratique:
ALlexandra Knipe; David Wedgwood
Autres avocats clés:
Donovan Lindsay; Emma Tante
Les références
‘Superb level of experience in court of protection matters, both contentious and non contentious. Empathetic and broad minded. David Wedgwood is well known and respected in this area as a solicitor with a natural instinct for the demands of this sort of work’.
‘Alexandra Knipe is the stand out partner, efficient, effective and approachable. Emma Tante is the up and coming in the team’.
‘Large team, well organised efficient and responds in a timely manner knowledgeable client focused’.
Principaux clients
The Official Solicitor
Principaux dossiers
- Involved in a complex capacity to marry dispute, addressing the issues of coercive and predatory marriage. Ensuring that protective measures were put in place and acting in safeguarding proceedings.
- Advising on a cross-border asset tracing case, involving Swiss based assets and UK repatriation issues.
- Advised the Official Solicitor on actions brought by the lender to enforce security. Analysis of complex commercial transactions and then achieving positive outcome. Safeguarding protected party through the removal of deputy convicted of fraud.
Bindmans LLP
The ‘hugely experienced and committed team’ at Bindmans LLP is led by the first-rate Laura Hobey-Hamsher. It is skilled at acting for vulnerable adults and their families and receives a regular flow of instructions from the Official Solicitor, Independent Mental Capacity Advocates, NGOs, charities and other lawyers. The team frequently acts for high profile individuals and advises on cases with a cross-border element. Other strengths lie in acting on cases where there have been allegations of serious physical and/or sexual and/or financial abuse. Amy Rowe is now at Dawson Cornwell and Charlotte Haworth Hird is at Bhatt Murphy.
Responsables de la pratique:
Laura Hobey-Hamsher
Autres avocats clés:
Emma Varley; Will Whitaker; Elizabeth Cleaver
Les références
‘Laura Hobey-Hamsher is one of the leading solicitors in this field. She is very dedicated to achieving the best outcome for her clients and always gets results‘.
‘Bindmans has a first rate court of protection team. They have excellent capabilities in health and welfare matters and benefit from being part of a wider team with expertise in related areas of mental health, housing, community care and human rights‘.
‘Laura Hobey-Hamshere is a star in the Court of Protection world. She is regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor and has a deep understanding of this area of law and the difficulties faced by those who lack mental capacity. Will Whitaker stands out as a very capable CoP solicitor.’
Principaux clients
63-year-old lady with a diagnosis of persistent delusional disorder)
27-year-old young person with autism and severe learning disability
Tony Hickmott
Family of patient at Northwick Park Hospital
18-year-old young person with autism spectrum disorder
Principaux dossiers
- In the case of S, the team represented S, who was, at the time proceedings were brought, detained under s3 Mental Health Act 1983 and 23 and a half weeks pregnant. When she raised the possibility of a termination, the treating Trusts had said that she did not have capacity to consent to a termination, and that it was not in her best interests to have one.
- Mr Hickmott has been detained under s3 of the Mental Health Act since 2001, despite having been deemed to be medically fit for discharge since 2013. Bindmans is instructed by the Official Solicitor to act for Tony in ongoing Court of Protection proceedings brought by his parents.
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP
Suzanne Marriott and Sally Ashford co-lead the full-service and ‘excellent‘ Court of Protection team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP which is an integral part of the highly recommended private wealth practice. The large team is adept at handling multi-jurisdictional disputes. Marriott is a member of the Solicitors for the Elderly and also the STEP special interest group on mental capacity (as is Ashford). Work undertaken includes advising on issues of fraud and restitution, anti-tax evasion, complex tax planning, judicial separations and managing large estates with global asset portfolios.
Responsables de la pratique:
Suzanne Marriott; Sally Ashford
Autres avocats clés:
Graeme Kleiner; Oliver Auld; Rebecca Piper; Robyn Hack
Les références
‘Suzanne Marriott has a stellar reputation – she is the first choice independent property & affairs deputy for high net worth families in dispute, and so has an in-depth knowledge of the workings of the Court and the dynamics at play’
‘Suzanne Marriott is very ably supported by Oliver Auld and Rebecca Piper who have excellent judgment in Court of Protection litigation, representing their clients’ interests at each stage without losing sight of the big picture’.
‘Suzanne Marriott is massively respected, and not a little feared by all in the sector. Oliver Auld is a very shrewd operator with excellent judgment. Rebecca Piper is excellent with clients and very experienced for her seniority’.
Clarke Willmott LLP
The ‘knowledgeable and approachable’ team at Clarke Willmott LLP has the benefit of two Panel Deputies, namely Anthony Fairweather and Anne Minihane. It supports clients across the whole spectrum of Court of Protection work including on high-value PI awards arising from catastrophic injury/clinical negligence cases to matters of fraud, insolvency and abuse by attorneys. Other strengths include advising on foreign jurisdiction issues and dementia. It is a ‘down to earth and compassionate' team. Jess Flanagan is now at Ashfords LLP.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anthony Fairweather
Autres avocats clés:
Anne Minihane; Bonita Walters
Les références
‘The team has breadth and depth in terms of knowledge and expertise. Anne Minihane always makes time to have informal discussions about novel issues. She provides an expert service to her clients whilst being incredibly approachable’.
‘Anthony Fairweather is a pragmatic and skilled leader. He is unafraid of the most challenging and complex matters and builds fantastic relationships with clients and other professionals‘.
‘The team has a hugely broad skill set, and can assist and advise on any manner of Court of Protection and Mental Capacity matters. They have a particular specialism in injured clients, and have an excellent paralegal support team to assist with this’.
Principaux clients
Training in Mind (Wales)
Southern Advocacy Services (Isle of Wight)
Dorset Advocacy
Official Solicitor
Solent Mind
Swan Advocacy
Mental Health Matters Wales
Bristol Mind
DAC Beachcroft LLP
One client describes the culture of DAC Beachcroft LLP as 'one of openness, respect and professionalism’. The ‘excellent team’ that is led by Leeds-based Paul McGough advises public and private sector health and social care organisations on a wide range of mental health, mental capacity and patient care issues. It is routinely involved in the most complex and high-profile cases in the Coroner’s court and represents clients in the Court of Protection and Family Division on issues relating to serious medical treatment, personal welfare, community care and ethical sensitivity. Gill Weatherill, who at the Newcastle office, is another key member of team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Paul McGough
Autres avocats clés:
Gill Weatherill
Les références
‘The team responds quickly to requests for legal advice and support, even at the shortest of notice. In particular, the way the team responds to requests for legal assistance in the preparation of s.49 reports is excellent’.
‘It is the ability to engage, explain and then take appropriate action that really shines amongst all the individuals we have worked with from DAC Beachcroft. Equally, due to the close relationships we have established and their knowledge of our most complex cases, DAC Beachcroft is often one step ahead in terms of identifying themes and areas for further focus’.
‘Paul McGough – I value the ability to simply phone him when needed to discuss any legal issues as needed. In my experience he has always responded promptly, does not make any value judgements around the nature of the query and always provides a resolution or legal view with little fuss and minimal delay’.
Principaux clients
Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust
Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
York Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Leeds CCG
NHS North Kirklees and NHS Greater Huddersfield CCG
NHS Wakefield CCG
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Health Research Agency
Barnsley Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust
Airedale NHS Foundation Trust
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust
Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Harrogate NHS Foundation Trust
BUPA
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sheffield Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Commissioning Board (NHS England)
NHS North East Lincolnshire CCG
NHS Calderdale CCG
NHS Hull CCG
Babylon Healthcare Services
City Health Care Partnership CIC
Health Research Authority
NHS Doncaster CCG
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
PANEL APPOINTMENTS
NHS Resolution (Lots 1, 2)
North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (CPC)
NHS Shared Business Services (SBS)
Crown Commercial Services
NHS Digital
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for a mental health NHS Trust in Court of Protection proceedings concerning the birth of patient R’s child. R was detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.
- Acted for a number of NHS and private sector health clients in Court of Protection proceedings concerning the vaccination of patients against Covid-19 where this has been opposed by someone close to them.
- Represented an NHS Clinical Commissioning Group in complex Court of Protection proceedings concerning the discharge of a restricted patient, P, who was detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 in hospital.
Enable Law
Enable Law ‘puts the client at the centre of its practice’. Practice head Stacey Bryant is ‘hugely innovative and commercial’ and has extensive experience of supporting clients who lack capacity following a traumatic acquired brain injury. The team advises on all aspects of Court of Protection applications, hearings and orders and also acts as deputies for many clients. Consultant Patricia Wass plays a pivotal role in the mental capacity team and has acted as a panel deputy for the Office of the Public Guardian for many years. The team receives many accolades for its ‘strong team ethos’.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stacey Bryant
Autres avocats clés:
Patricia Wass; Karen Jackson; Asha Beswetherick; Emily Steel; Bethan Phillips; Jamie Woods; Caroline Featherby; Nikki Bedford
Les références
‘Stacey Bryan is exceptionally knowledgeable‘.
‘‘Stacey Bryant is approachable, open to ideas and suggestions and truly has the needs of Enable clients at the heart of what she does’.
‘Karen Jackson has a tactical brain.’
Gillhams Solicitors LLP
Christopher Poxamatis heads the department at Gillhams Solicitors LLP that is currently managing 120 deputyship cases. It manages a large variety of cases ranging from elderly clients who lack capacity to young children who have suffered significant injury at birth. Poxamatis is a professional deputy and was appointed to the Office of the Public Guardian Panel in 2015. The group regularly represents clients and their families at the Court of Protection hearings and provides ongoing management of their estates and their affairs in conjunction with the clients’ family members. Lisa Cornish also has considerable experience in this area.
Responsables de la pratique:
Christopher Poxamatis
Autres avocats clés:
Lisa Cornish; Shareen Tanvir
Les références
‘Very good knowledge through their work acting as panel deputies – they live and breathe Court of Protection. Lisa Cornish and Chris Poxamatis are both tremendously talented’.
‘The practice has many years of experience and mainly deals with Court of Protection appointments’.
‘The partners and staff are extremely competent with the specialised practical aspects of dealing with the deputyship clients and their family members. Members of this team are friendly, courteous, diligent and professional and responsive at all times’.
Hugh James
The ‘approachable’ team at Hugh James is praised for its’ pragmatic and holistic advice’ under the leadership of Andrew Harding. The professional deputyship team deals solely with high-value complex cases arising from damages claims. The work extends to overseeing the direct employment of care teams to the purchase of property, overseeing house adaptations and the investment of funds to provide care for a client’s lifetime. It is currently managing the affairs of 183 individuals, including 144 deputyships and 39 trusts with total assets, including property and large investment portfolios exceeding £175m.
Responsables de la pratique:
Andrew Harding
Autres avocats clés:
Kate Coles; Ruth James; Charlotte Fletcher; Joy Davies; Laura Metcalfe
Les références
‘Andrew Harding and Kate Coles provide a wealth of expertise and experience. I’ve recently worked with Charlotte Fletcher and Joy Davies, both have an excellent understanding of the clients’ needs and respond quickly to queries’.
‘The team genuinely cares about the vulnerable people who they are engaged to support. Often their clients have suffered massive injury, trauma or abuse and they take a personal interest in their ongoing welfare. Ruth James – such a down to earth and kind lawyer who has the right personality to support the vulnerable clients she is safeguarding’.
‘Strong expertise and a consistent track record of being involved in very complex and high value deputyship arrangements. Hugh James (due to its size and specialisms) also offers the ability to bring in other teams to resolve matters out-with the scope of deputyship arrangements’.
JE Bennett Law
Jane Bennett leads the practice at JE Bennett Law that receives plaudits for its work with vulnerable clients by being ‘exceptionally helpful at a difficult time – approachable and friendly and happy to explain legal terms in understandable language to the layman’. Jane Bennett and Richard Shearing act as deputies jointly and the team has continued to grow its brain injury deputyship practice on the back of Bennett’s expert witness practice in catastrophic injury cases. It continues to be instructed by the Official Solicitor, other solicitors who do not specialise in Court of Protection work as well as receiving a steady flow of barrister recommendations.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jane Bennett
Autres avocats clés:
Richard Shearing; Lorna Halfpenny-Beeby; Amy Paxton; Jemma Cahan
Les références
‘The team has technical wizards and is the most caring client-focussed team in the field. The stand-out differences are the outstanding customer service, professional package, and the feeling of safety and comfort clients experience’.
‘Jane Bennett is a leader in her field and a credible expert witness. Her reports are clear and detailed and are accepted by the courts and opponents alike’.
‘Well organised and prioritises the objectives of the client’.
Principaux clients
Dolmans
DWF Law
Horwich Farrelly
Weightmans
BLM Law
CL Medilaw
Dutton Gregory
TG Baynes
Principaux dossiers
- Assisted the Court of Protection and the Criminal Court in investigating and collating evidence of financial abuse against its client MA which was pivotal in the criminal case.
- Appointed as a panel deputy for AB. The team instructed solicitors to represent the client in family proceedings regarding housing and financial support.
- Appointed as panel deputy for MM who at the time lacked capacity, was homeless and was subject to a freezing injunction.
Kingsley Napley LLP
The ‘outstanding, extremely capable, experienced and kind’ team at Kingsley Napley LLP is ‘accustomed to running large and complex cases’. Simon Hardy heads the department that has a primary focus on assisting clients with matters pertaining to property and affairs in addition to managing deputyships. It is also skilled at helping clients on health and welfare matters. The majority of its clients lack capacity due to either a catastrophic brain injury that has been caused by medical negligence or personal injury. Anita Gill, as a panel deputy, manages the affairs of the elderly particularly those who have been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Responsables de la pratique:
Simon Hardy
Autres avocats clés:
Anita Gill; Ryan Mowat; Jemma Garside; Sameena Munir
Les références
‘I have found this practice unique because of its incredible empathy. Extremely pro-active on tight deadlines, and attention to detail. A very real and hands-on concerted effort in very challenging circumstances. I would certainly recommend to anyone. Anita Gail and Sameena Samur have been literally life savers for my family’.
‘Jemma Garside for Kingsley Napley has taken the time to understand my family’s situation, and had been able to offer advice which went beyond merely form filling and filing. She has always grasped the nuances of a situation and provided specific and appropriate advice, thinking outside the box to approach the court’.
‘Jemma Garside provides meticulous attention to detail, and responds promptly to every single enquiry; while this might not sound innovative, it certainly demonstrates best working practise, rather than just saying the words. She cares about her clients, and shows understanding of the often difficult and distressing reality of needing to seek CoP intervention for loved ones who lack capacity’.
Mackintosh Law
Mackintosh Law has an 'ethos of providing the best quality professional advice in a timely fashion. They will always go the extra mile to support and assist their client’. The firm has an excellent national reputation for its specialism in mental capacity welfare casework in the Court of Protection. It is co-led by the ‘outstanding’ Nicola Mackintosh and the ‘incredibly skilled’ Zena Soormally Bolwig. The group is regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor to the Senior Courts, advocacy agencies and lay individuals in vulnerable adult protection cases. It has been busy advising on diverse issues such as challenges to deprivation of liberty under the Mental Capacity Act and other health and welfare and property and affairs cases.
Responsables de la pratique:
Nicola Mackintosh KC; Zena Soormally Bolwig
Autres avocats clés:
Georgina Byrne; Kris Jackson; Shiva Krishnan
Les références
‘This team is one of the most experienced and ground breaking teams doing Court of Protection work. The extent of the work they do in enhancing ‘P’s’ participation in the proceedings has been ground breaking. It is a small niche, but extremely expert firm‘.
‘This team is dedicated to the rights of the disabled and is the platinum standard for this client group. Kris Jackson is a star of the future’.
‘Extremely well-regarded and effective Court of Protection team. Knowledgeable, professional and tenacious solicitors bringing interesting and important cases. Zena Soormally Bolwig – really top-flight solicitor, one of the best in the country. Fights her client’s corner fiercely and a pleasure to work with’.
Miles & Partners LLP
Rachel Turner and Floyd Porter head the specialist mental capacity and mental health team at Miles & Partners LLP. It regularly advises on cases that involve the capacity and best interests of vulnerable adults who are unable to make fundamental health and welfare decisions themselves. The team is frequently instructed by the Official Solicitor, Relevant Person’s Representatives and by relatives on an array of issues such as S21A challenges as well as S16 cases. It is also increasingly advising on serious medical treatment cases too.
Responsables de la pratique:
Rachel Turner; Floyd Porter
Autres avocats clés:
Andrew Bowmer; Kaileigh Hazeldine
Les références
‘Rachel Turner advised me and she certainly knows mental capacity law inside out. I valued her expertise and her insight into this particularly tricky and sensitive situation. She always responded promptly and there were some important deadlines which she helped to manage effectively’.
‘The Miles & Partners Court of Protection team includes highly experienced specialist practitioners. Andrew Bowmer is very experienced and highly specialist in Court of Protection practice. He is always up-to-date on the latest legal developments’.
‘There is a large and very experienced team who provide clients with a real sense of reassurance and confidence they their matter will be handled well. Floyd Porter has a very calm manner and takes everything in his stride’.
Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP
Daniel Toop and Julie Burton lead the excellent team at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP that has been strengthened by the additions of associate James Berry from Hodge Jones & Allen and senior associate Victoria Federico from Shoosmiths LLP. The group is skilled at acting as a professional deputy or trustee for individuals in receipt of an award due to personal injury or clinical negligence claims. It has a broad client base of children and adults with acquired brain injuries and other injuries across the UK and internationally. The group also manages the estates of a number of its elderly clients. It currently manages 128 deputyship matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Daniel Toop; Julie Burton
Autres avocats clés:
Grace Serwanga; Rachel Taylor; James Berry; Victoria Federico
Les références
‘This is a leading Court of Protection Firm, well resourced and highly respected’.
‘The team is led by Julie Burton along with Daniel Toop who are excellent and highly experienced practitioners. Grace Serwanga- highly proactive in addressing complex and difficult client challenges’.
‘They have in depth knowledge about deputyship, trusts and protecting personal injury awards. They have extensive experience in the areas they practice.’
Russell-Cooke LLP
Gareth Ledsham heads the contentious court of protection team at Russell-Cooke LLP while Rita Bhargava leads the non-contentious capacity and court of protection group. The practice handles a vast array of matters for various private clients as both applicants and respondents and also advises not-for-profit organisations whose users do not have the capacity to manage their own property and financial affairs. It is adept too at advising on statutory will applications as well as health and welfare applications (primarily relating to contact, residence and the provision of care). In addition it has a wealth of experience in areas such as applications to remove attorneys and agreed/contested applications for deputyships.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gareth Ledsham; Rita Bhargava
Les références
‘Very personable, always available to answer any questions. Understanding of the situation and very patient’.
‘Rita Bhargava is excellent’.
‘What makes this team is the leadership of Rita Bhargava. Rita has specialised in Private Client work of all kinds, but Court of Protection and Capacity issues in particular, for many years. Her specialist knowledge is second to none’.
Shoosmiths LLP
Shoosmiths LLP has ‘one of the most experienced and capable court of protection teams in the country. It offers a highly personalised and collaborative approach. Clients are fully supported and encouraged to participate in the decision-making process’. The team now manages over 200 cases, from ongoing deputyship, trust and Lasting Power of Attorney matters to ad hoc applications, statutory wills and other bespoke advice services. It specialises in property and affairs matters. Sue Bowler, Lucy Taylor and Charlotte Dunn head the national offering whose team members are ‘very approachable, knowledgeable and available’. They are praised for providing an ‘efficient but friendly service’.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sue Bowler; Lucy Taylor; Charlotte Dunn
Autres avocats clés:
Rebecca Bristow; Lauren Miner; Andriy Buniak; Tricia Grout
Les références
‘Friendly and approachable contacts, Lucy Taylor in particular is very approachable and knowledgeable, ready to listen and ready to receive advice’.
‘The team is hardworking but never too busy that they can not give you the time that you need. Would like to mention in particular Sue Bowler ‘.
‘On hand to make pragmatic decisions in support of trustees/clients, a friendly approach informal where possible but business like and formal when required. Lauren Miner in particular has been fantastic so far in all aspects of support to us’.
Principaux clients
Philip Eaglesham
Principaux dossiers
- Providing ongoing advice to Philip Eaglesham as professional co-trustee of a Personal Injury Trust following a settlement from the Ministry of Defence after contracting Q fever as a serving Royal Marine in Afghanistan.
Wrigleys Solicitors LLP
The ‘excellent’ team at Wrigleys Solicitors LLP provides specialist advice to clients who are under the jurisdiction of the Court of Protection and deals with all aspects of property and financial affairs for these clients. It currently manages 140 deputyships. In addition the group has been appointed to the Office of the Public Guardian panel of Deputies since 2015 and is also regularly referred work by the Official Solicitor. It is also a member of the Brain Injury Group’s Court of Protection panel. Lisa Eato co-heads the team with Jane Netting. Netting ‘makes the process of dealing with the Court of Protection stress free for the family’.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jane Netting; Lisa Eato
Autres avocats clés:
Lynne Bradey; Charlotte Dyson; Thomas Mundy; Hannah Norton
Les références
‘The Court of Protection Team at Wrigleys clearly knows the law, they are proactive, highly competent, focused on the best interests of their clients, efficient, professional, experienced and knowledgeable. It is always a professional pleasure to deal with them on a contested Statutory Will matter’.
‘Jane Netting has clear expertise in this field. She makes herself available to discuss matters, with a clear focus on the best interest of the incapacitated person. She is pragmatic, evidently happy to explore matters with the Official Solicitor and her drafting is clear and precise’.
‘The COP team at Wrigleys is diligent, knowledgeable, approachable and above all they care deeply about their clients’ welfare’.
Ashtons Legal
Ashtons Legal is adept at supporting clients who have mental incapacity for various reasons. It specialises in acting for clients who have suffered a catastrophic acquired or birth-related injury and it also works with some elderly clients and those with mental health problems. Head of department Adrian Mundell is well regarded. It acts as a professional deputy for over 120 clients and also supports some family members who are acting as a lay deputy.
Responsables de la pratique:
Adrian Mundell
Autres avocats clés:
Debbie Holmes; Paul Humphries
Les références
‘Ashtons has the strongest Court of Protection team I have worked with. They have a large number of people working for them and a diverse range of personalities allowing them to match appropriate individuals with different clients’.
‘The team structure allows it to work efficiently and communication with me is always strong, both at deputy and relationship manager level. All members are always approachable.’
‘I have worked with a large number of the team on a wide range of clients over the years and working with each member has always been a positive experience. Members of the team really care about their clients and want the best for them’.
Principaux dossiers
- Working with a number of families acting as Professional Deputy for children who have suffered birthing injuries. A substantial medical negligence claim has either been concluded or is in progress, and there is a range of complex needs including 24 hour care and a requirement to adapt properties to meet the individuals’ needs.
- Acting as professional Deputy for those suffering a serious acquired brain injury either through a workplace accident or a road traffic collision, in many instances working with the clients to purchase or adapt property to enable independent living.
- Providing support to vulnerable clients on a wide range of ensuing matters. One client for whom it acts as professional Deputy entered into a relationship with a woman which was very volatile and opposed by the family.
Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors
Practice head at Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors is Lesley-Ann Mayhew who frequently acts in Deputyship cases managing substantial damages awards for victims of all ages who have suffered brain injury caused through medical accidents where they are unable to manage their own affairs. In addition Mayhew is a full member of STEP and currently an Associate Member of Solicitors for the Elderly.
Responsables de la pratique:
Lesley-Ann Mayhew
Les références
‘Mainly deal with one partner but the support staff are very well informed and helpful. Lesley-Ann Mayhew is the key partner in the department. She is tenacious and empathetic to her clients and leaves no stone unturned in order to secure the right result for her clients’.
‘Small but effective team that cares about its clients’.
‘Stand out partner is Lesley-Ann Mayhew is always pleasure to work with’.
Bevan Brittan LLP
Bevan Brittan LLP is best known for supporting public and independent sector health and social care organisations on a broad range of issues in the Court of Protection. Clients include the NHS, local authorities, housing associations, charities and third sector organisations. Tim Hodgetts and Simon Lindsay co-head the department that has an excellent reputation for its work nationally through its various offices on a range of complex matters including human rights and other liberty and protection safeguarding issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tim Hodgetts ; Simon Lindsay
Autres avocats clés:
Hannah Taylor
Les références
‘Excellent client engagement and support’.
‘Responsive and willing to support and communicate with staff at all levels in the organisation where required, tailoring guidance and advice appropriately.’.
‘This has strength and depth and with the two skilled and pragmatic partners – Simon Lindsay(who is approachable and experienced) and Hannah Taylor (who can be relied upon to guide clinicians through complex arguments and processes with patience and efficiency’.
Principaux clients
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
NHS Bristol CCG
South London and Maudsley Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Birmingham CCG
NHS West Hampshire CCG
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
West London Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Devon CCG
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Somerset Partnership in the case of EF&LR –v- Pennine Healthcare and Somerset NHS FT, an appeal to the Court of Protection which reviewed and consolidated the law relating to treatment of capable children who refuse medical advice but whose lives are at risk if they are not treated against their wishes
- Advised University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust in the matter of RS, a series of emergency applications to court of protection over Christmas and the New Year, but involving complex issues of international jurisdiction.
- Advised South London and Maudsley NHS Trust in a complex case involving decisions about whether to intervene to protect someone who may become incapable, at a time when they can make their own choices.
Boyes Turner
Boyes Turner fields a ‘very knowledgeable, highly motivated and caring‘ team that is led by Ruth Meyer. Alexander Wright and Meyer are ‘well known and respected’ in this field. It specialises in managing the property and affairs of high-net-worth individuals who lack capacity to do so themselves, whether they be children, adult or elderly clients. The majority of its clients have substantial claims for personal injury or clinical negligence compensation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Ruth Meyer
Autres avocats clés:
Alexander Wright; Rosie Banks; Sue Clark
Les références
‘Ruth Meyer and Alexander Wright have been amazing, extremely supportive hardworking, organised, very caring and compassionate are always available if we need help from them and reply promptly. They always take our concerns seriously and do whatever they can to resolve any problems we are having’.
‘The Court of Protection team at Boyes Turner has a strong collegiate feel. They all fully understand their clients’ needs and requirements superbly. Ruth Meyer and Alexander Wright always put their clients’ needs and interests first’.
‘We have been working most closely with Rosie Banks. She has always been very responsive to questions and has been able to provide a detailed analysis of a situation and a preferred way forwards, or a selection of options with a justification for each, very promptly‘.
Principaux dossiers
- Advising on ongoing litigation and deputyship for a disabled teen with challenging behavioural issues who has requested a name change requiring the team to seek permission for a capacity assessment.
- Acting as deputy for a minor with severe and complex needs arising from injuries sustained at birth. Following a settlement, a property was purchased and significant adaptations have recently been completed which provide its client with a bespoke, accessible home.
- Acting as deputy for a teen with significant medical issues and limited life expectancy. Under challenging cross-jurisdictional and time-critical circumstances, the team sought authority to execute a settlement to ensure the client’s estate could not pass to his estranged father.
Burke Niazi Solicitors & Advocates
Burke Niazi Solicitors & Advocates ‘employs compassionate, committed, well-informed solicitors with the highest professional standards. Their commitment to their clients is exemplary and their interaction with other professionals always courteous’. Keith Clarke and Michael Barrett co-head the department and are both established Accredited Legal Representatives under the Law Society’s Mental Capacity Act (welfare) accreditation scheme. It has particular experience in welfare matters including cases involving deprivation of liberty, and disputes related to care and residence.
Responsables de la pratique:
Keith Clarke; Michael Barrett
Autres avocats clés:
William Ako; Nicola Peacock
Les références
‘Good mix of COP and MH lawyers. Michael Barrett is a stand-out solicitor. An organised solicitor who is able to give firm and empathetic advice to clients’.
‘Strong COP team with excellent background and overlapping expertise in mental health law. Keith Clarke stands out’.
‘William Ako and Keith Clarke are both excellent solicitors who have a breadth of legal knowledge and are highly committed to their clients. Both work efficiently to respond to evidence from other parties and pursue their clients’ cases’.
Capsticks LLP
Capsticks LLP fields a team of ‘friendly, approachable individuals with a sound knowledge of this field and a professional attitude’. It specialises in advising NHS providers and commissioners, public, private and charitable sector clients on all issues involving incapacitated and vulnerable persons. Another core area of expertise is its knowledge of the interaction between the Mental Health Act, the Mental Capacity Act and the Deprivation of Liberty safeguards. The ‘exceptionally responsive’ Francis Lyons heads the department.
Responsables de la pratique:
Francis Lyons
Autres avocats clés:
Adam Hartrick; Serena Patel; Tracey Lucas; Nadine Mansell; Amy Holden
Les références
‘Great all-around COP team for healthcare bodies. There are great people at all levels throughout the organisation to handle a wide variety of cases’.
‘Francis Lyons: A real star. Has an exceptional understanding of the Mental Capacity Act and Mental Health Act, and is able to run some really complex, tricky and high-profile cases for health bodies extremely well. Adam Hartrick: Well-deserving of his national reputation in the field‘.
‘Very strong team, great depth of knowledge across all levels of seniority’.
Principaux clients
NHS Kent & Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, (formerly NHS South Kent CCG)
NHS South West London Clinical Commissioning Group
NHS South East London CCG
North Middlesex University Hospitals NHS Trust
Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust
London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust
NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG
NHS North West London CCG
Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust
Duncan Lewis Solicitors
Duncan Lewis Solicitors fields ‘a thorough, knowledgeable and professional team’ with Gillian Alysia de Freitas and Angela Sandhal at the helm. It advises on a broad array of matters from disputed capacity and best interest matters to specialising in cases that overlap the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act as well as deprivation of liberty safeguards, section 16 cases and inherent jurisdiction matters. Rachel Caswell recently moved to Irwin Mitchell.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gillian Alysia de Freitas; Angela Sandhal
Autres avocats clés:
Ben McGuckin
Les références
‘Knowledgeable team. Client centred. Goes the extra mile. Professional, whilst being very good with vulnerable clients’.
‘Ben McGuckin – is such an excellent solicitor, he is diligent, extremely knowledgeable and always goes the extra mile for his clients. Ben shows genuine compassion for his clients and has a good rapport with them. He listens and really gets to know the client’.
‘Angela Sandhal was absolutely fantastic. She handled the case really well. She is empathetic, understanding and very efficient and all issues were handled brilliantly – she was very patient’.
Edwards Duthie Shamash
Edwards Duthie Shamash has lawyers who are ‘incredibly tenacious in ensuring that the best possible outcome can be achieved for P’. Melissa Law leads the team who along with Laura Mannering receive many plaudits for their representation of protected parties in complex health and welfare proceedings before the Court of Protection and the High Court as well as their representation of family members, paid Relevant Persons Representatives and other advocacy organisations. In addition it receives a steady flow of instructions from the Official Solicitor.
Responsables de la pratique:
Melissa Law
Autres avocats clés:
Laura Mannering; Liam Cunningham
Les références
‘The team has some of the best in the business and is likely to take a leading spot in the next five years‘.
‘Very experienced and good people here, with useful overlap across Court of Protection and related areas like community care and JR. Laura Mannering – very competent, experienced, effective’.
‘This is an experienced team of Court of Protection practitioners, with the benefit of colleague support when one member of the team is unavailable. Melissa Law is a very experienced, knowledgeable, and devoted Court of Protection solicitor’.
Principaux clients
Official Solicitor
Dorset Advocacy Group
Voiceability
Principaux dossiers
- Instructed by the Official Solicitor to represent LW in the case of LW [2020] EWCOP 50 in which the judgment handed down by Hayden J explored and provided guidance on patterns of behaviour that may amount to controlling and coercive behaviour.
- Instructed by the Official Solicitor to represent P in the matter which was reported in the judgment of Kent County Council v P v NHS Kent and Medway Commissioning Group [2022] EWCOP 3 which considered complex issues regarding transparency, privacy and reporting in the Court of Protection.
- Instructed by the Official Solicitor to represent SA in a section 16 matter. In this matter the local authority is seeking declarations relating to 9 different points of capacity.
Fieldfisher
Fieldfisher has ‘people who are first-class quality, very professional with vast experience’. Anna Bond leads the ‘very cohesive team’ of experienced COP lawyers with a focus on high-value, complex property and affairs deputyships for adults and children all over the country, who have sustained life-changing catastrophic injuries as a result of serious accidents and birth trauma. On a capitalised basis, it is currently managing in excess of £350m of client funds and other assets.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anna Bond
Autres avocats clés:
Robin Tubbs; Kirstie Chambers; Stella Young
Les références
‘Fieldfisher has continually proven to be our best choice of deputyship for my daughter. There has not been a single moment of regret so far. The firm is well informed and truly professional and has an amazing ability to give support and valuable advice that we needed wholeheartedly in the last three years’.
‘Communication is perhaps the most important element in our interaction with Fieldfisher. Knowing that there is a team of dependable individuals that you can talk to and get things moving is what gives us peace of mind that things will get better‘.
‘A really good Court of Protection team – Anna Bond is amazing and completely reliable in every way’.
Hill Dickinson LLP
Hill Dickinson LLP is a trusted advisor to private sector organisations as well as NHS bodies. It continues to be involved in an array of complex cases involving the Mental Health Act 1983; the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Children Act 1989/2004, as well as human rights and equality issues (such as deprivation of liberty safeguards). London-based Kiran Bhogal is recommended and she frequently advises clients on significant judicial reviews.
Responsables de la pratique:
Kiran Bhogal; Sharon Thomas; Paul Allerston; Ben Troke
Autres avocats clés:
Emma Galland; Emma Pollard
Les références
‘The team is extremely responsive, which is necessary in this area of work which is often directed by short notice and tight deadlines’.
‘The team is extremely knowledgeable and is known for working on many of the leading cases in this area. Emma Pollard is extremely knowledgeable, and produces very thorough written work’.
‘Kiran Bhogal and Emma Galland are stand-out partners. They are extremely knowledgeable and offer sensible and pragmatic advice in the Court of Protection. They are fantastic at communicating with clients. I always feel that we are in safe hands when we instruct Hill Dickinson‘.
Principaux clients
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
NHS England
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
NHS North Central London CCG
Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust in its application to the Court of Protection seeking declarations as to whether it was in a patient’s best interests to undergo renal transplantation.
- Represented King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in a case about a young girl (P) who was diagnosed with a brain tumour and required (a) surgery to remove the tumour; followed by (b) 12 months of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
- Represented NHS North Central London CCG in a case about a young man with learning disabilities, who lacked capacity to decide whether to have the Covid-19 vaccinations/boosters.
Hodge Jones & Allen
Christine Dyson joined Hodge Jones & Allen from Barr Ellison LLP and now leads the practice following the departure of Philippa Barton; the team helps clients with severe brain injury, learning disability and mental illness and is experienced in dealing with safeguarding issues for clients who are at risk of financial exploitation and in making best interests decisions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Christine Dyson
Les références
‘The practice has a strong reputation. The partner dealing with our case was not only sympathetic to our situation, but also was very pro-active in making sure all administrative tasks required to deal with the Court of Protection were completed in a timely manner’.
‘HJA CoP team is responsive and knowledgeable. They hold the best interests of the clients at the centre of all the decisions they make. They are compassionate, whilst taking a strong approach with the clients as required due to the lack of capacity’.
‘Christine Dyson is very willing to undertake difficult conversations in a calm and constructive way. Works brilliantly as part of a team for the client’s overall care’.
Hyphen Law
Christine Bunting leads a ‘highly efficient, professional and supportive’ team at Hyphen Law. It currently manages over £110m of combined client assets and over £4m combined clients’ annual income. The team is known for supporting clients nationwide who are in receipt of substantial compensation claims due to severe and complex injuries. It also helps lay deputies and acts in a number of joint deputyships with lay deputies. Many of its clients are children.
Responsables de la pratique:
Christine Bunting
Autres avocats clés:
Kelly Knight; Elizabeth Metcalf
Les références
‘I have been instructed by Kelly Knight, who was very easy to work with and displayed real excellence in the overlap between financial private client matters and the Court of Protection. I would recommend her and the wider team when a complicated matter arises in this area’.
‘They are responsive and keep to the timescales agreed. The reports I have had are balanced, careful and considered. I have worked a lot with Christine Bunting and I find her clever, willing to listen’.
‘A friendly and very well informed team with excellent communication every step of the way. Honest and open yet sensitive advice always. Elizabeth Metcalfe particularly impressive with modern day, dynamic and timely communication’.
IBB Law
IBB Law has three Grade A fee earners – Jacqueline Almond, Russell Hallam and Elena Hall as well as a Grade B fee earner Michael Charalambous. In addition, Hallam is a member of the Office of the Public Guardian’s panel of professional deputies. The team currently acts for approximately 100 clients. It has expertise in dealing with clients with acquired brain injuries, mental health issues, dementia, learning disabilities and alcohol/drug abuse.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jacqueline Almond; Russell Hallam
Autres avocats clés:
Elena Hall; Michael Charalambous
Les références
‘Knowledgeable about Deputyship’.
‘Russell Hallam is very knowledgeable. We have a reasonably good understanding of the law and he respected our knowledge and understanding and provided us with relevant material to enable us to provide relevant information and arguments to support our case’.
‘Responsive and efficient. Elena Hall- Very efficient. Prompt response. Easy to engage with’.
Leigh Day
The human rights department at Leigh Day includes its specialist court of protection team. Anna Moore heads the group that has an established practice in best interest cases. The offering continues to be busy advising on issues ranging from withdrawal of treatment, choice of treatment, deprivation of liberty as well as other issues relating to residence, care and contact.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anna Moore
Autres avocats clés:
Sophie Wells
Les références
‘A team of all round human rights lawyers who are able bring their experience into the Court of Protection’.
‘Sophie Wells is a star of the future’.
Principaux clients
Official Solicitor to the Senior Courts
The Children’s Commissioner for England
Principaux dossiers
- Acts for AHK in linked proceedings involving AHK’s capacity to consent to life sustaining treatment. This case led to a linked claim involving AHK’s eligibility to receive a kidney transplant.
- Instructed by the Children’s Commissioner for England to intervene in the Supreme Court case of T (a child) UKSC 2019/0188 involving the provision of unregulated accommodation for children in care.
- Acts for AB in Court of Protection proceedings relating to her residence, care, capacity to enter into sexual relations, contact, ongoing medical treatment and education.
Mills & Reeve LLP
With Jill Mason at the helm at Mills & Reeve LLP it fields a large practice throughout the country that advises a diverse range of clients including acute, mental health and community trusts as well as commissioning bodies. Its work spans every aspect of the healthcare jurisdiction of the Court of Protection such as serious medical treatment cases and deprivation of liberty matters. Neil Ward is another prominent practitioner in this area.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jill Mason
Autres avocats clés:
Neil Ward; Lucy Johnston; Kevin Duce; Sarah Garrood
Les références
‘The team is professional and approachable, and collectively brings a wealth of knowledge to matters concerned’.
‘Neil Ward and his team are always on-hand when I need advice. There are many individuals across the firm that I work closely with or have been in contact with, and every individual has consistently been professional, approachable, realistic and collaborative in their approach’.
‘The team is very knowledgeable on various Court of Protection matters and will pass cases to partners/other team members if better suited for the case’.
RWK Goodman
RWK Goodman has a ‘very client focused and centric’ team that covers all aspects of Court of Protection work whether assisting lay clients with applications to the Court or acting as professional Deputy or Attorney for incapacitated individuals. A substantial number of its clients are subjects of clinical negligence and personal injury litigation. Tracey Norris Evans, Maria Meek and Sara Isenberg are the key names in the ‘brilliant’ team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tracy Norris-Evans; Maria Meek; Sara Isenberg
Autres avocats clés:
Amanda Noyce; Eirian Hitchmough
Les références
‘RWK Goodwin is probably one of the best Court Of Protection firms in the country never mind the region. They have some very experienced senior practitioners and a strong team. Amanda Noyce is excellent. Calm but tough when required. Very measured in her approach. Extremely experienced‘.
‘Truly client centred. The RWK team is incredibly knowledgeable, approachable and supportive. They ensure their clients have a voice and are part of planning and inclusion around their opportunities and how needs can be met. RWK is proactive and responsive‘.
‘Exceptionally professional team with great depth of knowledge. The ever capable Tracy Norris-Evans and Maria Meek in Bath’.
Simpson Millar LLP
Simpson Millar LLP has a team ‘full of knowledgeable individuals, who ensure the best possible representation for their clients’. Its burgeoning Court of Protection team regularly handles the full range of health and welfare and property and affairs work under the leadership of Melanie Varey. Varey specialises in complex cases concerning capacity and sexual relations, contraception and marriage and is regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor.
Responsables de la pratique:
Melanie Varey
Autres avocats clés:
Caroline Hurst; Kate Edwards; Aimee Last; Kayleigh Smith; Natalie Coates
Les références
‘A broad and bright health and welfare team. Aimee Last is a star of the future’.
‘Tremendous experience in this team, and a lot of depth in both health and welfare and property and affairs. Mel Varey is compassionate, no-nonsense and tough. She builds an excellent rapport with people and they really trust her to fight their corner’.
‘Kate Edwards – extremely experienced and reliable deputy with a deserved national profile. There is nothing Kate doesn’t know about the Mental Capacity Act. Kayleigh Smith – terrific solicitor, pleasure to work with‘.
Principaux clients
Official Solicitor
Switalskis Solicitors
Alison Kaye leads the ‘very responsive’ team at Switalskis Solicitors. Based in Huddersfield and York, it is is well known for its CoP work throughout Yorkshire and beyond, particularly in relation to health and welfare matters. It has a strong reputation for dealing with complex mental capacity and welfare cases, and deprivation of liberty challenges relating to Sections 15, 16 and 21A of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alison Kaye
Autres avocats clés:
Michael Kennedy; Amandeep Dosanjh; Danielle Smithurst; Nichola Burridge-Todd
Les références
‘I have always found Switalskis very responsive when contacted. They keep the client at the centre of the proceedings, ensuring their voices are heard and rights protected. They appear to work well as a team as when one solicitor is away I am able to contact their colleague regarding the specific client’.
‘I have worked closely with Amandeep Dosanjh on a number of cases. She is great at explaining things in simple language to our clients and myself. She is very helpful and always makes time to discuss complex cases with me, sometimes giving me informal legal advice.’
‘A large, well-respected and very experienced team, with excellent practice from top to bottom.’
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for the protected party in the proceedings with Alison Kaye acting as Accredited Legal Representative.
- Alison Kaye represented client by way of her litigation friend the Official Solicitor.
Warners Solicitors
Practice head at Warners Solicitors is Martin Terrell who provides ‘a first-class service to his clients, hugely knowledgeable and supportive’. The team covers the full range of deputyship related work from elderly clients (wealthy clients to those on benefits), brain injury/damages and panel cases (following family disputes and financial abuse) as well as contentious and non-contentious applications. It also deals with Lasting Powers of Attorney and trusts, often involving elderly or vulnerable beneficiaries, and advises on tax, welfare benefits and funding issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Martin Terrell
Les références
‘The team is headed up by the awesome Martin Terrell. He is an exceptional lawyer and a leader in the field of Court of Protection work. He takes the time to mentor others and help drive the sustainability of the profession’.
‘Martin Terrell has built an excellent COP team which offers an excellent service to clients and their families. He knows the clients’ situations very thoroughly, and him and his team are always available and hugely supportive and hands on and very friendly’.
‘They are very experienced in this area (COP) and I would highly recommend Martin and the team at Warners’.
Weightmans LLP
Weightmans LLP and RadcliffesLeBrasseur have recently completed a merger. The combined group acts on a wide range of health and welfare as well as property and affairs matters for a large number of local authorities, NHS trusts, private health and social care providers. In addition it recently added Robert Rushton to its ranks from Ward Hadaway LLP.
Responsables de la pratique:
Simon Goacher; Richard Jolly; Richard Bate; Sarah Louise Walker; Jonathan Shankland; Andrew Parsons
Autres avocats clés:
Robert Rushton; Morris Hill
Les références
‘Weightmans went above and beyond in its interaction with myself for a case I held as part of my role as a social worker within the County Council’.
‘Weightmans practice was very person centred and was able to excellently support and represent both myself, and the person to a very high standard. This resulted in a positive outcome’.
‘Morris Hill was really experienced in acting for a local authority and was able to guide me through something which was incredibly different to my own role and made the whole experience a lot easier’.
Principaux clients
Kirklees MBC
Knowsley MBC
Carmarthenshire County Council
Derby City Council
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Rutland County council
Derbyshire County Council
Wirral MBC
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Bolton CCG
Lanyon Bowdler
Lanyon Bowdler deals with a range of complex property and affairs matters as well as receiving an increasing number of instructions on contested welfare cases and the transfer of deputyships from other firms. The department manages approximately 60 deputyships and trusts with assets in excess of £100m under the leadership of Neil Davies.
Responsables de la pratique:
Neil Davies
Autres avocats clés:
Lucy Speed
Les références
‘Neil Davies is a caring and compassionate Deputy. He is dedicated to ensuring his clients are able to engage in activities and experiences that are meaningful to them’.
‘Neil is a very calm and calming personality, extremely affable and very much with the human touch. This belies a true lawyer’s brain. He fights his client’s corner tenaciously, drawing on vast experience and expertise to deliver extremely high quality work‘.
‘Small friendly team approachable client focused. Neil Davies and Lucy Speed are the key people within the COP team that I work with. Both provide a compassionate resource and are highly knowledgeable in their field‘.
Principaux dossiers
- Advised in a Statutory Will application concerning AX, a gentleman with dementia who had been financially exploited by his handyman.
- Acted for a brain-injured and amputee client (NX) in identifying and adapting accommodation for his needs.
- Acted for brain-injured client (CX) concerning serious employment issues with his care staff.
Minton Morrill
Julia Morrill leads the skilled team at Minton Morrill that manages multi-million pound funds for those who lack mental capacity to manage their property and financial affairs. Morrill has been particularly busy helping clients with acquired brain injuries.
Responsables de la pratique:
Julia Morrill
Autres avocats clés:
Sophie Kelly; Mary Woodward; Raksha Champaneri
Les références
‘Julia Morrill is friendly and approachable, professional and always responds promptly to any correspondence’.
‘The team is easily available via email and phone. Keen to ensure a client’s need is met as promptly and efficiently as possible’.
‘We use MintonMorrill for their deputyship services and managing our sons compensation award’.
MJC Law
Conor Maguire, Kate Jackson and Lauren Crow lead a ‘highly specialised team with a clear passion for Court of Protection work’ at MJC Law. It is skilled at handling health and welfare matters alongside community care and mental health work.
Responsables de la pratique:
Conor Maguire; Kate Jackson; Lauren Crow
Autres avocats clés:
Ashley Bradley
Les références
‘MJC is an excellent firm. All of the solicitors are very good and they are always prepared to go the extra mile for their clients. Kate Jackson is superb. She is good with vulnerable clients and defends their interests fearlessly’.
‘Really bright and enthusiastic and not afraid to take difficult cases and argue difficult points of law’.
‘This team is full of excellent people, and all of the senior people are nationally-recognised Court of Protection experts. They are outstanding at both the academic and practical sides of the law, and have an excellent rapport with their clients’.
Ward Hadaway LLP
Georgina Rowley co-leads the team at Ward Hadaway LLP with Lisa Evans. Rowley is a partner in the healthcare team and her expertise spans issues of consent and capacity as well as the interface between mental capacity and mental health law. Evans is also actively involved in court of protection matters. The former head of department Robert Rushton is now at Weightmans.
Responsables de la pratique:
Lisa Evans; Georgina Rowley
Principaux clients
NHS North Cumbria CCG
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
NHS South Tees CCG
NHS South Tyneside CCG
County Durham and Darlington NSH Foundation Trust
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust
Gateshead Health NSH Foundation Trust
Hartlepool and Stockton-On-Tees CCG
South East London CCG
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
North East Commissioning Services
Tees Valley Clinical Commissioning Group
Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Wards Solicitors LLP
Jenny Pierce heads the practice at Wards Solicitors LLP that has particular expertise in advising the elderly and their families. The team has dealt with over 100 professional deputyships from 2020 to date. Alison Lamont advises deputies and attorneys, oversees the professional deputyship workload and deals with all aspects of statutory wills and gifts.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jenny Pierce
Autres avocats clés:
Alison Lamont
Les références
‘I had contact with a number of the team and each one was helpful and conscientious in their dealings with me. The process and time that each process would take was clearly explained and the associated cost were given to me at the beginning so there were no surprises’.
‘Every member of the team was equally helpful’.
‘Wards Solicitors has been working closely with clients under the court of protection for a number of years and I have always found the team to be very approachable and knowledgeable especially with working and reporting to the office of the public guardian’.
Principaux dossiers
- Successfully applied to call in a deputyship security bond against a joint lay deputy whose co-deputy had spent their mother’s funds prior to his death.
- Acting as Professional Deputy for MH who lives abroad with his partner and remains married to another party in the UK in the context of a dispute regarding who should inherit if he passes away.
- Advising S, as carer for P, who had tried to get P to change her will to S’s benefit; successfully agreeing terms of a statutory will (S was a respondent) and mitigating professional repercussions for S.