When a friend or loved one loses the ability to manage their affairs, it can be an emotional and overwhelming time for those closest to them. Disputes may arise between family members, attorneys, or professionals over what is truly in the person’s best interests.
These disagreements, whether about finances, welfare, or legal authority, can quickly become complicated and distressing without the right legal guidance.
At Flint Bishop, our Court of Protection Dispute Solicitors provide clear, expert legal advice to help you resolve disagreements involving vulnerable individuals who lack capacity. With experienced lawyers based in Derby, Leeds, Sheffield, and York, and acting for clients across Derbyhsire, Yorkshire and throughout England and Wales, we are trusted to handle the most sensitive and complicated Court of Protection matters.
Want to speak to us now? Call us on 0330 123 9501.
Court of protection disputes
Whether you are seeking to challenge a deputy’s actions, dispute a statutory will, or need advice on contesting capacity, our team, including specialists Kate Saunders, Sam Hirst and Sundeep Sandhu, offers calm, strategic support to help you protect your loved one’s interests.
We understand the emotional burden these cases can place on families, friends or deputies, and will work with you sensitively to achieve the right outcome, whether through negotiation and mediation or, where necessary, robust representation in court.
Call us today on 0330 123 9501 or complete the enquiry form on this page to speak directly with a solicitor about your concerns.
Court of protection disputes
A Court of Protection dispute arises when there is a disagreement about decisions made, or proposed to be made, on behalf of someone who lacks mental capacity. These disputes often involve serious concerns about who should have the legal authority to act for a vulnerable person, how decisions are being made, or whether those decisions are truly in that person’s best interests.
The Court of Protection exists to protect individuals who cannot make certain decisions for themselves due to a condition such as dementia, a brain injury, learning disability, or severe mental illness. It has the power to decide on issues relating to property and financial affairs, health and welfare, and to resolve disputes about capacity, deputyship, or the actions of attorneys appointed under a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
Disputes can arise in relation to a vulnerable person’s finances, and arguments can easily occur as to what is in the best interests for a family member or loved one who has lost capacity.
Our team can assist with making or defending an application made to the Court of Protection in respect of a vulnerable person’s property and affairs.
We can provide specialist advice on a wide range of Court of Protection matters including:
If you’re dealing with a dispute over a vulnerable person’s finances, our team can help. We advise on contested Court of Protection matters including concerns over attorneys or deputies, loss of capacity, and misuse of assets.
Court of protection disputes
At Flint Bishop, we approach Court of Protection disputes with a clear focus on protecting vulnerable individuals while helping those concerned resolve conflicts in a constructive and efficient way.
Each case is unique, but we follow a structured process to ensure that clients are fully supported at every stage. In most cases where there is not a deputy or attorney acting, the Court of Protection will need to approve any decisions relating to a vulnerable person’s property and affairs.
Court of protection disputes
Our team is led by Court of Protection dispute solicitors Kate Saunders, Sam Hirst, and Sundeep Sandhu, who have extensive experience in handling estate disputes involving vulnerable people.
Kate and Sundeep are senior associates with over 20 years of combined experience in contested private client work. Both are members of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Solicitors (ACTAPS), reflecting their specialist expertise. Sam is recognised for his pragmatic advice and effective representation in emotionally complex cases.
We are trusted nationally to advise on deputyship disputes, capacity challenges, and contested statutory wills. With a strong track record in resolving matters out of court as well as representing clients in complex hearings, we offer the technical knowledge and professional credibility needed to protect your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone with genuine concerns, such as family members, attorneys, carers, professionals, or the Office of the Public Guardian, can raise objections to how a deputy or attorney is handling affairs.
Yes. If there is evidence of misconduct, mismanagement, or failure to act in the best interests of the vulnerable person, you can apply to the Court of Protection for their removal or replacement.
Some disputes resolved through mediation may conclude within a few months. Contested court proceedings typically take longer, sometimes up to a year or more depending on complexity and court scheduling.
Applicants usually face court application fees (around £400-£500 per application presently (during 2025/2026 subject the Court’s annual fee reviews). Legal fees depend on complexity and how long the claim takes to conclude. Deputies may also need to pay supervision fees and insurance bonds.
The Court steps in if the person lacks capacity and there is no valid Power of Attorney, or if there is dispute over capacity, appointments, statutory wills or financial decisions.
A deputy may be appointed to make ongoing decisions concerning finances and/or welfare. They must be over 18, not bankrupt, and usually a close relative, friend, professional solicitor, trust corporation, or local authority.
You can have a sole deputy, joint deputies (who must decide together), or joint and several deputies (either can act independently). Typically, up to four deputies may be appointed, though larger numbers are discouraged due to practicalities.
Yes. If new evidence emerges, a procedural error occurred, or circumstances have changed significantly, you can apply to reconsider a decision within 21 days of the date of the decision you wish to appeal against.
Most disputes involve at least one case directions hearing. Only fully contested hearings require witness testimony or cross-examination. We guide you clearly on what to expect at each stage.
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If you are facing a dispute involving a vulnerable person’s finances, welfare, or legal representation, early advice from a specialist solicitor can make a vital difference. At Flint Bishop, our experienced Court of Protection Dispute Solicitors are here to support you with clear, expert guidance tailored to your circumstances.
We are based in Leeds, Sheffield, and York, and regularly act for clients across Yorkshire. Our reputation makes us the leading Court of Protection Dispute Solicitors in Bradford, Doncaster and Hull.
We also represent clients nationally. Whether you are a family member, an attorney, or a concerned professional, we offer dedicated advice throughout England and Wales. Our team has a strong record of resolving disputes in Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham and London. To arrange a confidential consultation, call 0330 123 9501, or complete the enquiry form below. We will respond promptly and are here to help.
On Monday 29 September, Flint Bishop successfully completed the acquisition of the entire business of Lupton Fawcett LLP. You have been forwarded to the page most relevant to your visit.
Please feel free to explore our website and learn more about our legal services and professionals, including those who have recently joined us from Lupton Fawcett.