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OUR SERVICES

Court of Protection and deputyships

Clear, compassionate support when someone can no longer manage their own affairs.

How we can help

When a loved one loses mental capacity, it can be an upsetting and uncertain time. Alongside emotional concerns, there are often urgent decisions to be made about finances, property or personal welfare. Our role is to guide you through the legal process with clarity, sensitivity and reassurance.

We’ll explain your options, help you understand your responsibilities and take care of the formalities involved. Whether you’re applying to the Court of Protection or acting as a deputy, we’re here to support you every step of the way and make sure everything is handled properly.

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OUR SERVICES

Court of Protection

The Court of Protection exists to protect people who lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. It has the authority to make decisions or appoint someone else to do so, covering matters such as finances, property and, in some cases, health and welfare.

We can advise on when an application to the Court of Protection is needed and prepare the application on your behalf. Our team will guide you through what the court requires, manage correspondence and help reduce delays, ensuring the process is as smooth and straightforward as possible at a difficult time.

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Deputyships

If someone no longer has mental capacity and does not have a lasting power of attorney in place, the court may appoint a deputy to manage their affairs. This is known as a deputyship and often relates to property and financial decisions.

We can help you apply to become a deputy, explain what the role involves and advise on your ongoing duties. Once appointed, we’re also here to support you with annual reporting requirements, managing finances and complying with the court’s rules, giving you confidence that you’re acting in the person’s best interests.

FAQs

Court of Protection matters can sometimes feel quite complicated. Here are some of the questions we’re most often asked.

It’s a specialist court that makes decisions for people who lack mental capacity or appoints others to act on their behalf.

A lasting power of attorney is set up while someone still has capacity. A deputyship is appointed by the court after capacity has been lost.

Usually a close family member or friend, although a professional deputy can be appointed in some circumstances.

It can take several months, depending on the complexity of the case. We’ll keep things moving and update you throughout.

Yes. Deputies must act in the person’s best interests and provide regular reports to the Office of the Public Guardian.

Why choose Belcher Addison?

Court of Protection and deputyship matters require both legal expertise and a compassionate approach. Our team understands the emotional weight these situations can carry, and we take the time to listen, explain and support you throughout.

With clear guidance, careful handling of the details and a genuine commitment to doing what’s right, we’ll help you navigate the process with confidence and reassurance. You can rely on us to be approachable, thorough and always focused on protecting the person at the heart of the matter.

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Get in touch

Visit us at our North Street or West Street offices in Emsworth, call or email us, or arrange a video appointment. However you’d like to get in touch, we’re ready to help.

  01243 377231
  enquiries@belcheraddison.co.uk