Court of Protection Solicitor

Our Court of Protection finance team act as professional deputy, managing financial affairs for many vulnerable clients. Clients are referred by the Office of the Public Guardian to Philippa Barton as panel deputy, and by litigation teams acting for incapacitated clients who have recovered damages awards.

You will be responsible for day-to-day management of our clients’ finances including building good relationships with clients, dealing with one-off requests for payments, making applications to the court, managing building projects, managing tax and insurance issues and completing OPG reports. The team also act for clients applying to be appointed as lay deputy and deal with probate matters. The team has been ranked by The Legal 500 and the team director is ranked in Chambers. Client testimonials say that the team is "knowledgeable about all things Court of Protection" and they are "empathetic, approachable and diligent." This is a relatively new Court of Protection team which is fast growing and very busy. The team works closely together and prioritises providing a high level of client care and a very efficient service.

Main Responsibilities of the Role:

• Report directly to Department Director;
• Professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills and a sensitive and sympathetic understanding of clients’ needs;
• Assisting with Court of Protection matters including day to day conduct of deputyship files, deputyship and other Court of Protection applications;
• Updating accounts and completing OPG reports;
• Instructing capacity assessors and financial advisors;
• Drafting trust deeds;
• Dealing with correspondence;
• Maintaining accurate time costing procedures;
• Implementing any recommendations made by your supervisor following monthly file reviews ensuring that these are dealt with promptly;
• Ensuring compliance with file management.

Key Skills Required:

• Solicitor with 2–3 years’ PQE, holding a clean and valid Practising Certificate at the time of application.
• Demonstrate experience in professional property and affairs deputyship work.
• A strong academic background with a Law degree.
• Clear understanding and knowledge of Court of Protection practice and procedure and the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
• Business acumen and the ability to market the Company.
• Excellent communications skills to work effectively with all types of people.
• Excellent analytical and organisational skills and ability to use own initiative but know when to seek guidance.
• Committed team player, self-motivated and professional.
• Excellent IT Skills – familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills.

Why Join Us?

• Work with one of the UK’s leading law firms recognised for excellence and innovation.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive workforce committed to equal opportunities.
• Access ongoing professional development and training.

What we offer:

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

Duncan Lewis is committed to Equal Opportunities and embraces diversity of its staff. The Company strives to ensure that our staff reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, which is reflective at all levels within our workforce. We guarantee an interview for candidates that disclose a disability and meet the essential requirements for the post. Please provide additional details in your covering letter if this applies.