Deputyship solicitors, London
Explore how we can help you and your family with any legal requirements connected to mental incapacity.
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Our team of experienced deputyship solicitors in London understands the complexities involved in managing the financial and personal affairs of someone who lacks the mental capacity to do so themselves.
We are here to provide expert guidance and support to individuals and families who are seeking to appoint a deputy or may already be acting as a deputy.
With a wealth of expertise in this field, we can assist you in navigating the intricate legal processes involved in applying to the court of protection for a deputyship order. Our solicitors will help you assess the best interests of the person lacking capacity and ensure that their best interests are protected and upheld.
At Moore Barlow we recognise the importance of acting in a compassionate and sensitive manner when dealing with deputyship matters. Our team will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and provide tailored legal advice that is specific to your needs. Contact us today to discuss how our deputyship solicitors can assist you in ensuring the financial and personal affairs of your loved ones are managed with care and diligence.
What is a deputyship?
A deputyship is a legal arrangement in which someone is appointed to make decisions on behalf of someone else who lacks mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. This typically occurs when an individual has not made a power of attorney and needs assistance with managing their personal welfare or finances.
Understanding the Court of Protection process
Applying for a deputyship involves completing detailed forms outlining the person’s capacity, financial circumstances, and proposed plans for management. These forms are submitted to the Court of Protection, which reviews the evidence and ensures that the appointment is in the person’s best interests. The process also includes notification of relevant parties and an assessment by the Court of Protection Visitor where necessary. Our team supports clients through every step, from gathering medical evidence to preparing witness statements and responding to queries from the court.
Our experience with complex and high-value estates
We regularly act in deputyship cases involving substantial assets, disputed family dynamics, or international property. Our solicitors have experience in coordinating with accountants, investment managers, and tax professionals to ensure long-term financial security for the protected person. We are also experienced in resolving disputes relating to deputy conduct, contested applications, and allegations of financial abuse, providing litigation support where required.
Benefits of appointing Moore Barlow as a professional deputy
Choosing Moore Barlow as a professional deputy offers peace of mind that a vulnerable person’s financial affairs are being managed with diligence, transparency, and expertise. We leverage secure digital systems to maintain accurate records, and operate with full regulatory compliance under the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Our proactive communication policy ensures family members are kept informed, and we offer bespoke solutions, including investment reviews and asset protection strategies tailored to the individual’s needs.
Why choose us?
At Moore Barlow we understand that the role of a deputy is crucial in safeguarding the interests of vulnerable individuals. As experienced deputyship solicitors in London, we provide unparalleled expertise in managing deputyship applications, court orders, and ongoing deputyship administration. Our dedicated team ensures the highest level of care and professionalism, working closely with families, healthcare professionals, and the court of protection. With a deep understanding of the complexities involved, we strive to protect and enhance the well-being of those who require a deputy.
Our team of deputyship solicitors in London is recognised for its specialist expertise in managing the financial affairs of individuals who lack capacity, with several members ranked in Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500 for Court of Protection work. We hold the STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) accreditation, which highlights our commitment to the highest standards in private wealth and incapacity matters. Our deep experience with the Public Guardian and Court of Protection panels ensures that we provide guidance grounded in up-to-date understanding of regulations and best practice. Clients benefit from a holistic, person-centred approach that integrates financial safeguarding, asset planning, and ongoing support tailored to long-term needs.
How we can help
Our team of experienced deputyship solicitors in London is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support in matters related to deputyships. We understand the complex and sensitive nature of these issues and aim to assist individuals who require someone to act as their deputy due to incapacity or vulnerability. Our solicitors have extensive knowledge in handling deputyship applications, managing financial affairs, making decisions about health and welfare, and ensuring the best interests of our clients are protected. Whether you need assistance in applying for a deputyship or require ongoing guidance in managing affairs, our solicitors are here to offer expert advice and practical solutions.
We can assist with a wide range of legal services including applying to the Court of Protection for a property and financial affairs deputyship order, managing day-to-day financial transactions, dealing with property sales or management, setting up and running personal injury trusts, and preparing statutory wills. We also guide clients through financial reporting responsibilities to the Office of the Public Guardian, liaise with care providers to manage financial obligations, and ensure compliance with safeguarding protocols. In complex cases, we can act as professional deputies where no family member is able or willing to take on the responsibility.
Our team of mental incapacity solicitors
Helen Goatley
Partner & Immediate Past Chair | Personal Injury, Court of Protection
Who we help
Our deputyship solicitors in London assist a diverse range of clients, including individuals who have been appointed as deputies for a loved one lacking mental capacity, families seeking guidance on deputyship applications, and professionals in need of expert advice on managing deputyship responsibilities.
We assist a diverse range of clients and their families, from high-net-worth individuals affected by sudden illness or injury, to vulnerable adults with learning disabilities or dementia. Our clients include professionals in sectors such as finance, construction, and healthcare who require support for family members, as well as trustees, case managers and independent financial advisers seeking legal clarity for long-term planning. We also work with local authorities and charities managing financial protection for their service users.
Contact us
For expert advice and representation in matters of deputyship, trust the experienced team at our London-based law firm. We are dedicated to providing personalised solutions that meet your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can assist you in navigating the complexities of deputyship law.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking and offer specialist deputyships legal services to clients nationwide. Contact Moore Barlow to find out how we can help you and your family.
Contact our mental incapacity team
Frequently asked questions: Deputyships for Property and Financial Affairs
What is a property and financial affairs deputy?
A deputy for property and financial affairs is a person appointed by the Court of Protection to manage the financial matters of someone who is mentally incapable of doing so themselves. This includes tasks such as paying bills, managing bank accounts, handling pensions, and dealing with property matters.
When should someone apply to become a deputy?
An application should be made as soon as it becomes evident that a person lacks mental capacity and there is no enduring or lasting power of attorney in place. Early intervention helps avoid delays in managing essential financial matters.
How long does the Court of Protection deputyship process take?
The process typically takes 4 to 6 months, although timescales can vary depending on complexity and whether any objections are raised. In urgent cases, interim orders may be granted to allow some decisions to be made in the meantime.
Can a professional be appointed as a deputy?
Yes, if there is no suitable family member or friend, or where the situation is complex, a professional such as a solicitor can be appointed. Professional deputies have regulated obligations and the experience to manage high-value estates or contentious issues.
What are the ongoing responsibilities of a deputy?
Deputies must keep detailed financial records, submit annual reports to the Office of the Public Guardian, and always act in the best interests of the person lacking capacity. They must also adhere to the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
Do deputies get paid?
Non-professional deputies (such as family members) can claim reasonable expenses, while professional deputies can charge for their time, subject to court approval and oversight.
Can a deputy make a Will for someone else?
A deputy cannot make a Will on behalf of someone else without special permission from the Court of Protection. This is known as a statutory will and is only granted in specific circumstances where it benefits the protected person.
