We help people who have been assessed as lacking capacity navigate Court of Protection proceedings with clarity and dignity.
We can help with:
Capacity and best interests disputes
S21A challenges to deprivation of liberty
S16 welfare applications
DoLS and RPR / RPPR referrals
Litigation Friend or Official Solicitor representation
When all you want is what's best for your family member, the legal process can seem daunting. No wonder many clients and families tell us they feel overwhelmed, as they struggle to understand their rights or how to challenge decisions they disagree with.
We understand this confusion because we see it every day. That’s why from the moment you contact us, we will explain everything in plain English and focus on what your loved one actually wants and needs.
Our role is amplifying their voice. Whether your family member is asking to go home, wanting to maintain relationships, or needing a care plan that reflects who they really are, we ensure their wishes guide – and don’t get lost in – the legal process. We treat every person with dignity and respect, understanding that these proceedings affect real lives and relationships that matter deeply.
Whether you’re a family member trying to understand your options, an advocate seeking legal representation for someone you support, or the person whose care is being decided, we’re here to explain what you can do and how we can help.
Court of Protection proceedings work best when everyone involved works together. That's why we've built strong working relationships with advocacy services, care home managers, and local authority professionals across the country.
We keep advocates regularly updated throughout proceedings and invite them to our meetings. This isn't just good practice. It means they can give you or your loved one accurate information about how the case is progressing. We believe everyone should understand what's happening and why, so we make communication a priority at every stage.
We also offer training sessions for advocates, helping them understand their role and how court proceedings work. Our team has delivered training to advocacy services across the country, sharing our expertise to improve outcomes for everyone. This collaborative approach means we can focus on what really matters – ensuring all decisions are made in the best interests of the person at the centre of the case.
We often receive referrals from “RPPRs” (Relevant Person’s Paid Representatives) at advocacy services. RPPRs visit care home residents or patients in hospital who have been assessed to lack mental capacity to make decisions about their accommodation and care and have been deprived of their liberty. They identify when someone is objecting to their placement. When an RPPR contacts us, we ask them to send us the “DoLS” (Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards) forms and their reports, so we can review the issues and assess whether there are grounds to make a court application.
We also receive referrals directly from the Official Solicitor, as well as from family members who are appointed as “RPRs” (Relevant Person’s Representatives). If your loved one is already subject to Court of Protection proceedings or you feel that proceedings need to be issued, we can provide you with advice.
We’ll arrange to visit your loved one, often with their advocate present, to hear directly from them about their wishes and feelings. This allows us to confirm if they are objecting to their care arrangements and to explain the court process to them in terms they can understand.
If we decide there are grounds for an application, we’ll draft the court documents and submit them to the Court of Protection. We’ll also consider who should act as litigation friend. This could be a family member (if appropriate), the RPPR, or in many cases an Accredited Legal Representative or the Official Solicitor. The litigation friend will then provide us with instructions throughout the case on behalf of the person who has been assessed to lack capacity.
If appropriate, we’ll notify close family members and people involved in their care and keep them regularly updated.
If your family member has been assessed to lack mental capacity to make decisions related to their accommodation and care, is deprived of their liberty and objects to that placement, they will be entitled to non-means tested legal aid. In other situations, they may be entitled to means-tested legal aid or may need to pay privately. We can advise you or them of this.
Our team includes three Accredited Legal Representatives who can act as both litigation friend and solicitor, streamlining the process and ensuring continuity of representation. This specialist qualification means we can fulfil both roles required in Court of Protection cases, reducing delays and complications.
What makes our team distinctive is the breadth of experience we bring from all aspects of the legal system. Some of our senior solicitors have previously worked for local authorities, giving us insight into both how decisions are made and challenged. Others have previously worked in childcare and family law, are experienced solicitor advocates, and sit as magistrates.
Our Court of Protection work covers a broad range of situations. We help people return home with suitable care packages, attend concerts and go on holiday, and secure capacity reassessments when needed. And we don't just focus on whether someone is in the right placement. We consider their wishes, care needs, relationships, what is in their best interests, and what would make them genuinely happy.
We are also Dementia Friends through the Alzheimer’s Society. We have significant experience representing people with dementia and complex mental and physical health diagnoses.
We treat every person with dignity and respect, always putting their wellbeing and quality of life at the heart of everything we do.
Court of Protection cases often arise when families face difficult decisions about their loved one's care and living arrangements. Here's how we help:
We challenge Deprivation of Liberty authorisations through Section 21A Mental Capacity Act 2005 applications, and explore alternative, less restrictive options that could better meet your family member's wishes and needs.
We consider the evidence and assessments for compliance with the law, and instruct independent experts, where necessary, to provide fresh capacity assessments, as well as challenge inappropriate best interest decisions.
We will explore the activities that matter to your loved one, and work to ensure their care plan supports a fulfilling life for them.
We will request that alternative placement options are considered, and work with families and professionals to explore living arrangements that could better respect your loved one's preferences while meeting their care needs.
We guide you through Lasting Power of Attorney and Deputyship applications, helping you understand the legal processes involved in obtaining formal authority to make decisions about your family member's affairs.
Our team has extensive experience with complex and contested Court of Protection matters, including urgent welfare cases and DoLS challenges. We have three Accredited Legal Representatives who can streamline proceedings by acting as both litigation friend and solicitor.
Consultant Solicitor | Court of Protection | Accredited Legal Representative Mental Capacity Welfare Accreditation Scheme
Senior Solicitor | Court of Protection | Accredited Legal Representative Mental Capacity Welfare Accreditation Scheme
Court of Protection Department | Solicitor
Laila began a legal career as a court Legal Adviser to Magistrates and Judges across various London courts. Over 19 years in the Ministry of Justice, Laila advised on adult and youth crime, gaining extensive experience in the criminal justice system, as well as in mental health, judicial review, and case stated.
Laila’s experience led to teaching the Legal Practice Course, where Laila taught criminal law, employment law, and advocacy. Laila also supervised research students and those working in the Family pro bono clinic.
In spare time, Laila sits as a Family Magistrate, making sensitive decisions about children’s futures and contact arrangements. Laila has also undertaken a range of voluntary roles in the UK and abroad, including charity work with children, volunteering as a Samaritan, serving as a mental health champion at work, supervising in a university family law clinic, and acting as a School Governor.
Combining a legal career with a commitment to public service led Laila to specialise in public law. Laila now supports vulnerable individuals lacking mental capacity and facing deprivation of liberty, often involving breaches of human rights. Laila helps parties navigate complex legal procedures, working closely with local authorities, advocates, and the Official Solicitor. Where needed, Laila applies to the Court of Protection to seek judgments on welfare matters, striving for outcomes that reflect the person’s wishes and best interests.
In spare time, Laila enjoys the outdoors, travelling, exploring different cultures and cuisines, cooking, DIY, theatre, and volunteering.
Court of Protection Department | Solicitor
During her time at Bison Solicitors, Louise completed her solicitor training, further developing her expertise in public law and advocacy. Prior to joining Bison, she worked as a Paralegal and Legal Assistant in the Local Authority, primarily within Child Care and Court of Protection.
Louise is an enthusiastic and passionate member of the Court of Protection Team. She is dedicated to helping vulnerable client groups, particularly children and adults with complex support needs.
From 2014 to 2018, Louise supported victims of domestic violence as a Domestic Violence Support Worker within a domestic abuse charity. Her commitment to client care is evident in her compassionate and client-focused approach, ensuring that each individual receives the support and representation they need.
Court of Protection Department | Solicitor
Tina has dedicated her career and personal life to safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals, approaching each case with professionalism, compassion and a clear understanding of her clients’ concerns and objectives. By drawing on her legal expertise and strong client care skills, Tina provides practical solutions and a service that consistently aims to exceed expectations.
With an unwavering commitment to resolving complex matters, Tina combines determination, sound judgment, and a confident application of the law with an empathetic approach. Her career has naturally evolved towards the protection of human rights, ensuring that the decisions made are always in the best interests of her clients.
Court of Protection Department | Solicitor | Law Society Mental Health Accredited Panel Member
Before her time at Bison Solicitors, she volunteered at Citizens Advice, helping others in personal strife.
Amy is a qualified solicitor and accredited member of the Law Society’s Mental Health Panel, having gained both during her time at Bison Solicitors.
Amy started in the Mental Health Department; representing those detained under the Mental Health Act, advocating for them at their tribunal hearings.
Amy is a compassionate, due-diligent and dedicated solicitor. Taking these skills learnt and developed Amy now works in our Court of Protection department aiming to achieve the best possible outcome for each individual with a valued empathetic approach.
Her interests include languages, European history and politics. She also teaches Spanish in her spare time.
Court of Protection Department | Solicitor
Since joining Bison Solicitors, she has acted for a wide range of clients, building strong relationships and offering clear, compassionate advice tailored to individual needs. Her work is driven by a commitment to protecting the rights and best interests of vulnerable individuals.
Outside of work, Sahr enjoys exploring new cuisines and discovering different restaurants, as well as travelling to new places and keeping fit at the gym.
Court of Protection Department | Trainee Solicitor
She has since begun her solicitor training with Bison Solicitors, working towards full qualification.
Camilla began her legal career in criminal law but soon discovered a strong interest in Court of Protection work. Since making the transition, she has found this area of law particularly rewarding. She is passionate about supporting vulnerable individuals and ensuring their voices are heard—something she finds especially meaningful during client visits and advocacy. Camilla continues to build her experience and expertise in the Court of Protection field as she progresses through her training.
Outside of work, Camilla enjoys travelling and experiencing different cultures, spending time outdoors, and reading.
Court of Protection Department | Trainee Solicitor
Murron is now undertaking her Training Contract with a focus on the Court of Protection element of Human Rights law.
Murron joined the Court of Protection team at Bison Solicitors in 2023. Having worked within various professional roles in the Local Authority, Solicitor’s firms and Domestic Abuse support organisations, Murron has gained experience of working in a range of areas of law. This includes Human Rights, Domestic Abuse and Family Law. She is also a qualified McKenzie Friend and Dementia Friend.
Outside of work, Murron enjoys travelling and exploring new countries. She also enjoys theme parks, reading and watching movies.
Court of Protection Department | Apprentice Solicitor
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, Shelby chose to specialise in Court of Protection work. She initially joined Bison Solicitors as a Paralegal supporting senior members of the team and now manages her own caseload working closely with the OS, RPPRs and family members. Shelby particularly values building strong relationships with her clients and supporting them through challenging times.
Outside of work, Shelby maintains an active lifestyle, attending regular fitness classes and enjoying countryside walks with her dog. She also enjoys travelling and reading to relax.
Court of Protection Department | Community Care Department | Solicitor | Head of court of Protection Department
She was admitted to the roll as a solicitor in 2009 and worked as a solicitor-advocate for a specialist Child Law firm representing parents and children, through their appointed Guardians, in child care proceedings. Whilst there, Danielle became a member of the Law Society Children Panel and Association of Lawyers for Children.
Danielle now specialises in representing vulnerable clients who lack mental capacity, before the Court of Protection, primarily in health and welfare proceedings.
She works closely with her clients, their families and all professionals involved to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of every client and she has acquired a wealth of experience working on a variety of complex cases.
Danielle has always been passionate about defending the rights of others and she has dedicated her career to advising and helping clients to ensure the best possible outcome.
Danielle is highly professional and her approach to clients is always confident yet compassionate.
In her spare time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family and friends, music, travelling and yoga.
Court of Protection Department | Consultant Solicitor | Accredited Legal Representative Mental Capacity Welfare Accreditation Scheme
Janet was admitted to the roll as a solicitor in 2001 after completing her training contract with a firm specialising in family law. She went on to work at Her Majesty’s’ Court Service as a legal adviser to the magistrates, dealing with Criminal and Family matters . Since then she has gained a wealth of experience in Public Law working for various local authorities around the country, with a focus on social care law, including Childcare Proceedings and Court of Protection proceedings. Janet also has experience in property law and residential conveyancing.
Janet has a thorough knowledge of the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Children Act 1989, and experience of Judicial Review applications. Her work for various local authorities for over 12 years has given her insight into the practice and procedures of local authority social care departments and their statutory duties towards children and adults. She has previously conducted safeguarding adults reviews and serious case reviews for local authorities.
Janet is able to act in situations where a person (‘P’) is deprived of their liberty under conditions which amount to a deprivation of their liberty/breach of human rights and is able to represent P to challenge a standard authorisation granted by a Supervisory Body through the Court of Protection. Janet can also assist individuals to make applications to the Court of Protection in relation to welfare decisions or to apply to appoint a Deputy for Finance and Property or Welfare. Janet is able to advise assist and champion individual clients in relation to social care and deprivation of liberty. Janet will offer a service to vulnerable clients based on empathy and integrity.
Away from the office, Janet enjoys a variety of hobbies with her family, including running, swimming, paddle-boarding and country walks with her dog.
Court of Protection Department | Community Care Department | Senior Solicitor | Accredited Legal Representative Mental Capacity Welfare Accreditation Scheme
Jeanette also spent some time teaching legal knowledge and professional and functional skills to post-graduate law students on the LPC and to business and legal apprentices.
Jeanette is a highly experienced, valued member of the Court of Protection department.
When do I need to apply to the Court of Protection?
You may need the Court of Protection when your loved one has been assessed as lacking mental capacity and there are disagreements about their care, living arrangements or safety. This includes situations involving deprivation of liberty, objections to care home placements or disputes about what is in their best interests.
What is a Section 21A challenge and when is it used?
A Section 21A challenge is used to dispute a Deprivation of Liberty authorisation when someone is objecting to their placement or care arrangements. It allows the Court to review whether the deprivation of liberty is lawful and whether a less restrictive option is available.
What does a Litigation Friend do in Court of Protection cases?
A litigation friend makes decisions about the case on behalf of a person who lacks capacity to conduct proceedings. This can be a family member, the Official Solicitor, an Accredited Legal Representative or an advocate. Their role is to ensure the person’s wishes, feelings and best interests are properly represented.
Can you help if I disagree with a capacity assessment?
Yes. We regularly review capacity assessments to ensure they comply with the Mental Capacity Act. Where appropriate, we instruct independent experts to carry out a fresh assessment so the Court has accurate evidence when making decisions.
Is legal aid available for Court of Protection cases?
If your loved one is deprived of their liberty and objecting to their placement, they are entitled to non-means tested legal aid. In other cases, legal aid may be means-tested. We will assess eligibility and explain any contributions before the case begins.
Can you challenge a best interests decision?
Yes. We help families challenge best interests decisions that do not properly reflect the person’s wishes, feelings, relationships or long-term wellbeing. We work with professionals and the Court to explore alternative care plans and less restrictive options.
How do you involve families and advocates in the process?
We work collaboratively with families, RPRs, RPPRs, advocates and care professionals. We provide regular updates, invite advocates to meetings, and ensure everyone understands the decisions being made, why they are being made, and how the person’s voice is being heard throughout the case.
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