Making decisions for your loved ones
When someone you care about can’t make decisions for themselves, the legal process can feel overwhelming. At Nelsons, our Court of Protection solicitors help families navigate this challenging time with clarity and compassion. We’ll guide you through every step, from deputyship applications to representing your loved one’s best interests, making complex legal procedures straightforward and manageable.
With decades of experience in Court of Protection law, we understand the emotional weight these situations carry. Our team in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham works efficiently to protect vulnerable people while supporting families through what can be a difficult process.
Contact us today for expert legal advice on 0800 024 1976 or complete our enquiry form for a guaranteed response.
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Court of Protection services we provide
Our Court of Protection lawyers offer comprehensive support across all aspects of mental capacity law:
Deputyship applications
We prepare and submit applications to become a deputy, handling all Court documentation and representing you at hearings. This allows you to make decisions on behalf of someone who lacks mental capacity.
Property and financial affairs
Our team manages applications for deputies to handle finances, property sales, investments, and benefit claims, ensuring your loved one’s assets are protected.
Health and welfare decisions
We assist with applications covering medical treatment, care arrangements, and where someone should live when they can’t make these decisions themselves.
Statutory Will applications
When someone lacks the capacity to make a Will, we help apply to the Court of Protection to create one on their behalf, protecting their estate and wishes.
Challenging decisions
If you disagree with decisions made by deputies, attorneys, or care providers, we can represent you in court to challenge these choices.
Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)
We help draft and register both property and financial affairs LPAs and health and welfare LPAs, ensuring your loved ones’ wishes are respected. Our Court of Protection solicitors guide you through the registration process with the Office of the Public Guardian, making sure the documents are legally sound and reflect your family’s preferences should capacity be lost in the future.
Trusts and estate planning
Our team provides comprehensive advice on setting up trusts and planning estates to secure the financial future of those under your care. Whether you need discretionary trusts, disabled person’s trusts, or protective property trusts, we tailor solutions to your unique circumstances. We ensure assets are protected, tax-efficient, and accessible when needed.
Advocacy and dispute resolution
Should disputes arise regarding care arrangements, financial decisions, or the actions of deputies and attorneys, our experienced solicitors offer robust representation. We strive for resolutions that protect the welfare and rights of vulnerable individuals, whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings if necessary.
Ongoing deputy support
We provide continued guidance to deputies on their duties, annual reporting requirements and compliance with court orders.
Emergency applications
When urgent decisions are needed, we can make rapid applications to the Court of Protection to protect someone’s interests immediately.
Our Court of Protection process
1. Initial consultation – We discuss your situation in detail, explain the Court of Protection process, and assess the best route forward. You’ll leave with clear next steps and realistic timeframes.
2. Gathering evidence – We help you collect the medical evidence and documentation needed, including capacity assessments and financial records. We’ll guide you through what’s required.
3. Preparing your application – Our Court of Protection solicitors draft your application, ensuring all legal requirements are met. We handle the paperwork, so you can focus on your family.
4. Court submission and liaison – We submit your application and manage all communication with the Court of Protection. We keep you informed at every stage.
5. Hearing and resolution – If a hearing is needed, we’ll represent you, presenting your case clearly to the judge. Most applications are resolved within six months.
Why choose Nelsons Court of Protection solicitors
- Specialist expertise – Our Court of Protection lawyers have handled hundreds of cases, from straightforward deputyship applications to complex best interests disputes.
- Clear communication – Legal jargon won’t help you. We explain everything in plain English, so you understand exactly what’s happening and why. No unnecessary complexity.
- Efficient service – Time matters when someone’s welfare is at stake. We work swiftly to prepare applications and respond to court requirements, avoiding unnecessary delays.
- Compassionate approach – We know this isn’t just about legal process – it’s about protecting someone you care about. Our team handles every case with sensitivity and understanding.
- Proven track record – We’ve successfully represented families across Derby, Leicester, Nottingham and beyond, securing deputyship orders and protecting vulnerable clients’ interests.
Ready to Get Started? If you need help with court of protection matters, our expert team is here to guide you. Contact our court of protection solicitors today on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form for a guaranteed response.
Meet the team
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Gemma HopperLegal Director & Solicitor
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George NevilleSenior Associate & Solicitor
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Tanya KirmanAssociate & Legal Executive
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Naomi McFaddenAssociate & Solicitor
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Grace FashanuAssociate & Solicitor
Testimonials…
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Court of Protection Solicitors FAQS
Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions concerning court of protection
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What is the Court of Protection?
The Court of Protection is a specialist court that makes decisions for people who lack mental capacity. It appoints deputies, approves significant decisions about health and finances, and protects vulnerable people’s interests.
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When do I need Court of Protection solicitors?
You’ll need our help if someone lacks capacity to make decisions and there’s no lasting power of attorney in place, or if you’re facing complex decisions about their care, finances or welfare that require court approval.
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How long does the process take?
Most straightforward deputyship applications take 3-6 months from submission to approval. Emergency applications can be processed much faster when needed. We’ll give you realistic timeframes based on your situation.
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What's the difference between a deputy and an attorney?
An attorney is appointed through a lasting power of attorney while someone still has capacity. A deputy is appointed by the Court of Protection when someone has already lost capacity and no power of attorney exists.
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Do I need a medical report?
Yes, you’ll need a capacity assessment from a doctor or medical professional confirming the person can’t make decisions. We’ll explain exactly what’s required and can recommend assessors if needed.
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What are a deputy's responsibilities?
Deputies must act in the person’s best interests, keep their finances separate, maintain detailed records, and submit annual reports to the Office of the Public Guardian. We provide ongoing support to help you meet these duties.
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Can I make a Will for someone else?
Yes, through a statutory Will application to the Court of Protection. Our Court of Protection lawyers can help you apply if someone lacks the capacity to make their own Will.
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What if I disagree with a deputy's decisions?
You can apply to the Court of Protection to challenge decisions or request the deputy’s removal. We regularly represent families in these disputes, ensuring vulnerable people’s interests are protected.
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How much does it cost to instruct Nelsons?
Our fees vary based on your case’s complexity. We offer transparent pricing with clear quotes before you instruct us. Contact us for a no-obligation discussion about costs.
Get in touch
Speak to us now on 0800 024 1976Email Us