Question 1

Which clients do you usually work with?

Accepted Answer

Which clients do you usually work with?

I primarily act for individuals who lack the capacity to manage their own financial affairs, many of whom have received compensation following a serious injury or medical negligence.

As a professional deputy, my role is to make decisions in that person's best interests and to ensure that resources are managed in a way that supports their long-term wellbeing, independence and quality of life. In doing so, I work closely with family members, carers and other professionals to understand what matters most to the person at the centre of the case and to ensure that important decisions are informed by those who know them best.

Every family arrives with a different set of concerns. Some are worried about funding care, others about housing, family dynamics or what life might look like in ten years' time. I have always felt that the starting point is understanding the person, not the problem. The legal and financial issues are important, but they only make sense when viewed in the context of someone's life, relationships and future aspirations.

Question 2

What notable cases have you worked on?

Accepted Answer

What notable cases have you worked on?

Many of the cases I work on involve managing substantial compensation awards following life-changing injuries, including implementing care packages, purchasing and adapting properties, and making long-term financial decisions to support a person's future.

I have also acted in matters where concerns arose regarding the management of a vulnerable person's affairs. These cases involved reviewing historic deputyship arrangements, investigating financial decision-making and reporting findings to the Office of the Public Guardian and the Court of Protection where appropriate.

What links all of my work is a focus on protecting the individual at the centre of the case and ensuring that decisions are made in their best interests, both now and in the future.

Question 3

How do you help your clients achieve the best outcome?

Accepted Answer

How do you help your clients achieve the best outcome?

There is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer in Court of Protection work. Every person, family and set of circumstances is different.

My role is to understand what matters most to the individual and then work with the wider team around them to build a practical plan to achieve those objectives. That may involve bringing together case managers, therapists, financial advisers, architects, care providers and family members to ensure decisions are joined up and focused on the person's long-term needs.

I try to give clear advice, explain options in straightforward language, and support those involved in decision-making through often complex situations. The best outcomes are usually achieved when decisions are based on a clear understanding of the individual's wishes, feelings, needs and future aspirations.

Question 4

What can I expect from my first meeting with you?

Accepted Answer

What can I expect from my first meeting with you?

The first meeting is very much about listening and understanding your situation.

Many people come to us at a difficult point in their lives and may have little experience of the Court of Protection or deputyship process. I aim to provide a relaxed environment where clients and families can talk openly about their concerns, ask questions and gain a clear understanding of their options.

Meetings can take place in our offices, at home, in a hospital or rehabilitation setting, or remotely if that is more convenient. We’ll discuss the circumstances, immediate priorities and any support already in place. From there, I’ll explain how we can help, identify any urgent next steps and agree a clear plan moving forward. My aim is that people leave the meeting feeling reassured, informed and confident about what happens next.

Damian Hodkinson