The Court of Protection is a specialist court that makes decisions about the property and financial affairs of people who lack the mental capacity to make these decisions themselves. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as dementia, a learning disability, or a severe mental illness. Anyone can apply to the Court of Protection on behalf of someone who they believe lacks the mental capacity to manage their own affairs, including family members, friends, social workers, and health professionals.
There are a number of benefits to applying to the Court of Protection. First, it can help to protect the financial interests of the person who lacks capacity. The court can make orders that ensure that their money and property is managed in their best interests. Second, it can help to resolve disputes between family members or other interested parties about the person’s care and finances. Third, it can provide peace of mind for the person who lacks capacity and their loved ones, knowing that their affairs are being handled in a way that is in their best interests.