Court of Protection Bar Association launches free advice service for unrepresented family at urgent health and welfare hearings

Under the service, families and partners can source a Court of Protection Bar Association volunteer barrister to help with urgent advice or representation – if the hearing is in the next 14 days.

The organisation Advocate assists by helping to find a barrister and helping with direct public to barrister access.

The Court of Protection Bar Association said: “Sometimes, there is a disagreement between professionals and the family or partner of a person age 16+ who is said to lack mental capacity to make their own decisions, about that person’s health and welfare.

“The disputes can be about, for example, where someone lives, who they live or have contact with, who cares or supports them, their use of the internet, and sex / contraception, their medical treatment, or deprivation of liberty.”

The Association added: “Sometimes, these disputes need to be heard in court very quickly. That need for speed can lead to people who care about the person who lacks capacity, and should be involved in decision making, having very little notice of a court date and needing legal advice or representation at short notice.”

CPBA noted that requests for a barrister who can provide free urgent COP advice or representation should be sent to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Lottie Winson