Biography
I specialise in Court of Protection work, helping vulnerable people and their loved ones make decisions about their property and finances.
I deal with the management of day to day financial matters for a large number of deputyship and trust clients, ranging from children to the elderly – including those who have received a damages award as a result of personal injury. This involves assisting with decisions in relation to investments, personal budgets, capital expenditure and coordinating property adaptations tailored to individual clients with disabilities.
I also liaise with case managers, personal injury and clinical negligence lawyers, social workers and relatives to establish appropriate care regimes to make best interests decisions.
I am experienced in dealing with Court of Protection applications concerning appointment of deputies, replacement of incapacitated trustees for property, making gifts and statutory Wills and contentious Court of Protection applications concerning attorneys and deputies.
I am a member of the Court of Protection Practitioners Association (CoPPA) and an affiliate member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). I have recently gained a Distinction in the STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients and was shortlisted for Young Practitioner of the Year at the STEP Private Client Awards in 2015.
I'm also a member of Irwin Mitchell's Parent Carer Forum - a safe online space to connect with fellow parent carers and discuss the issues that matter to you. Join the Parent Carer Forum on Facebook.
Publications
Lasting Powers of Attorney: everything you need to know – (co-writer) Professional Adviser, Feb 2015
Caring for elderly relatives from a distance: legal and practical steps for assignees – Relocate Magazine, Sept 2013
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
I wanted to study a subject that would be challenging from an academic perspective, but also that would lead to a career where I could work closely with other people.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
I enjoy helping others to have the best quality of life possible, and working with other professionals within their support team to achieve this. One of the most satisfying elements of my job is helping clients to purchase their dream home, and then working with relevant specialists to get the property adapted so that it meets their needs – for example with equipment, or sensory rooms.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I like to spend lots of time socialising with friends and family, eating out and trying new things. I enjoy exercise, and run (semi!) regularly as well as doing exercise classes such as spinning and body combat. I am also a member of the Irwin Mitchell Choir in London.
Testimonials
"Very friendly and methodical clever people. I highly recommend the service that Irwin Mitchell provides." - 5* Trustpilot review
"I instructed Victoria to prepare a Trust Deed for my mum at the very beginning of lockdown and was not sure how easy or difficult it would be without being able to have a face to face meeting... From the first initial Teams meeting, through various emails and phone calls to issuing the final document we were kept in touch all the way through. Victoria and her assistant, Mitchell, responded promptly to my emails and the whole process was carried out smoothly and efficiently. I would have no hesitation in recommending the services of Irwin Mitchell and will certainly turn to them if I needed legal services again." 5* Trustpilot review
