Court of Protection (Health & Welfare) Solicitor Supervisor | 3 years PQE | Nationwide in London

Duncan Lewis Solicitors (Ltd) is regulated by the Solicitor’s Regulation Authority and was founded in 1998, headquartered in the City of London with offices nationwide. We are recognised by the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK independent legal directories as a top-tier law firm in all key practice areas. We are a paperless law firm with over 500 personnel that embraces hybrid-working, servicing both corporate entities and private individuals in over 25 areas of law across 60 languages.

The Court of Protection determines matters concerning individuals who lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves, including disputes about capacity and best interests across health and welfare, medical treatment, deprivation of liberty, and property and financial affairs. Duncan Lewis Solicitors’ Court of Protection department is consistently ranked by Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500, recognised for its client-focused approach, technical excellence, and commitment to representing vulnerable individuals.

Main Responsibilities of the Role:

• Report directly to Department Director.
• Conduct all aspects of Court of Protection case work (health and welfare) across a variety of case types including general welfare and deprivation of liberty challenges.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to other team members where appropriate.
• Manage and supervise Solicitors, Trainee Solicitors, and Caseworkers to manage appropriate caseload types and complexities.
• Assist with delivery of appropriate training and development in the department.
• Ensure compliance with file management and maintain accurate time-costing procedures.
• Support business development and the marketing and growth of the firm and COP department.

Key Skills Required:

• Minimum 3 years PQE as Solicitor.
• Extensive experience in dealing with COP welfare work including the conduct of section 21A and section 16 applications.
• Good working knowledge of mental capacity law and procedure appropriate to PQE.
• Mental Capacity (welfare) Accreditation desirable but not essential; must show an interest in attaining accreditation.
• Working knowledge of publicly funded Court of Protection work and ability to service privately funded cases.
• Legal Aid Supervisor experience desirable but not essential; must be willing to work towards the legal aid supervisor standard in the community care category.
• Experience in own advocacy is an advantage.
• Strong management and supervisory skills essential with a proven track record of supervising a team of case workers.
• Committed team player with the ability to approach team concerns fairly, foster a culture of positive change, and encourage cross referrals.
• Professional, pro-active approach with strong client care skills.
• Excellent analytical and organisational skills.
• Ability to use own initiative and sound judgment.
• Excellent IT skills, familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills.
• Proven ability to manage a demanding caseload and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate and organised case records.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and build strong client relationships.

What we offer:

• A fantastic supportive team.
• Excellent progression opportunities.
• Support for appropriate legal awards/recognition.