When a client suffers a serious brain injury, the legal battle doesn’t end with a successful personal injury or clinical negligence claim.
Managing a substantial compensation award for someone who lacks mental capacity is a lifelong responsibility and getting it wrong can have devastating consequences. This is where a professional deputy, appointed by the Court of Protection, makes all the difference.
At Jackson Lees, we work closely with PI and clinical negligence lawyers across Liverpool, Wirral, and the wider Northwest to ensure their clients’ finances are safeguarded for the future. Through our Jackson Lees Trust Corporation Limited, we provide stability and continuity, so families never have to worry about changes in personnel affecting their loved one’s care.
Claire Martini, Partner & Head of Court of Protection at Jackson Lees, outlines why professional deputyship matters and how it protects vulnerable individuals.
What is a Professional Deputy and How Do They Differ from a Lay Deputy?
A deputy is appointed by the Court of Protection to manage the affairs of someone who lacks capacity. While a lay deputy is often a family member, a professional deputy is usually a solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Why choose a professional deputy?
- Expertise in complex cases: High-value awards following brain injury require specialist knowledge of investments, care funding, and property management.
- Compliance and accountability: Professional deputies follow strict Office of the Public Guardian standards, reducing the risk of financial mismanagement.
- Reduced family stress: Deputies handle day-to-day decisions, freeing loved ones from administrative burdens and potential conflicts.
Why Should PI and Clinical Negligence Lawyers Refer Clients to a Professional Deputy?
For lawyers, the duty of care doesn’t stop at settlement. Referring clients to a professional deputy ensures:
- Protection of compensation awards: Deputies create sustainable financial plans for lifetime care.
- Accurate reporting: Annual accounts to the OPG maintain transparency and compliance.
- Seamless collaboration: Deputies liaise with litigation teams to manage interim payments and ensure funds meet rehabilitation needs.
This partnership safeguards your client’s future and strengthens your reputation for holistic client care.
How Does a Professional Deputy Support Brain Injury Survivors?
Brain injury can change everything, from earning capacity to daily living needs. Deputies:
- Pay bills and manage property.
- Arrange adaptations and specialist equipment.
- Oversee investments and benefits.
- Work with case managers and therapists to deliver tailored care.
We Can Help with Court of Protection Statements
Preparing statements for the Court of Protection can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex financial and care arrangements.
Our team can assist with drafting and submitting these statements, ensuring they meet all legal requirements and accurately reflect your client’s needs.
Continuity and Stability Through Jackson Lees Trust Corporation Limited
One of the biggest concerns for families is what happens if their solicitor retires or moves on.
At Jackson Lees, we offer peace of mind through our Trust Corporation, which guarantees continuity and stability for deputyship appointments. This means your client’s affairs remain protected for the long term.
Why Is This So Important in Liverpool and the North West?
The statistics speak volumes: every 90 seconds someone in the UK is admitted to hospital with an acquired brain injury, and the economic impact exceeds £43 billion annually.
For families in Liverpool and Wirral, having a trusted local solicitor as a professional deputy provides peace of mind and ensures compliance with the Mental Capacity Act.
Talk to Our Court of Protection Team Today
If you’re a PI or clinical negligence lawyer looking for a reliable partner to protect your client’s future, or you want to learn more about professional deputyship in Liverpool and the North West; Please give us a call, request a callback or make an enquiry to find out how we can help.