Deputyships

A Deputy is someone appointed by the Court of Protection to make decisions on behalf of someone who lacks mental capacity. This can be a lay-Deputy or a professional, such as a solicitor.

We can guide you through the lengthy process; the application involves completing a number of forms including details about financial background, family and their wishes.

Deputies can be appointed to assist anyone who has lost mental capacity such as an adult at risk due to them having learning difficulties or Down’s syndrome. A Deputy can be appointed for an adult who is in a coma following an accident, although in Poole and Bournemouth the most common reason for an adult having a Deputy appointed is due to a deteriorating condition such as dementia (Alzheimer’s, Vascular, Lewy Bodies, Frontotemporal).

If a partner of our firm is appointed then you can always rest assured that the adult’s affairs will be dealt with in their best interests. In a recent review of our firm, undertaken by the Office of the Public Guardian, we were advised that we are managing our Deputyships in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Professional Deputy Standards effectively. We were also complimented on our security and compliance systems which are “strong and positive”.