DEPUTYSHIPS

When is a one off Court of Protection order needed?

When someone loses the mental capacity to manage their finances and there is no Lasting Power of Attorney or Deputy in place, banks and pension providers will not release funds or allow account access without legal authority.
In these circumstances, a one off Court of Protection order can authorise a specific financial action in the person’s best interests, without appointing a long term deputy.

Request a Call Back

When is a one off Court of Protection order needed?

When there is no Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or deputy in place, it can become very difficult to deal with someone’s money, bank accounts or pensions. Financial institutions usually cannot release funds or allow account access without legal authority.
In these circumstances, an application can be made under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 for a one off order. This allows the Court to authorise a specific financial action in the person’s best interests, without the need to appoint a long term deputy.

Private bank account transfers

Why this may be necessary

Safeguarding concerns about how funds are being used or accessed.
Essential bills or care fees cannot be paid due to lack of account access.
Funds need to be transferred into a secure or managed account.
Financial institutions require legal authority before releasing money.

Positive outcomes

Protects the individual from financial abuse or exploitation.
Ensures care home or support costs are paid on time.
Provides clear oversight and accountability.
Safeguards assets for long term care needs.

Accessing private pension payments

Why this may be necessary

Access pension payments that are currently inaccessible.
Redirect payments to ensure care fees can be paid.
Manage pension income for daily living and care needs.

Positive outcomes

Enables access to essential income for care and living costs.
Supports continuity of care placements.
Ensures funds are managed correctly.

Supporting safeguarding and care stability

One off orders are often used where immediate financial decisions are needed to address safeguarding concerns or protect care arrangements.
Maintain continuity of care and accommodation.
Protect individuals from financial harm or exploitation.
Ensure funds are used to support wellbeing and quality of life.
COURT OF PROTECTION

A quick guide to one off Court of Protection orders

A one off order allows the Court of Protection to authorise a specific financial decision on behalf of a vulnerable adult who lacks capacity, without appointing a long term deputy.

Assess whether a one off order or full deputyship is the most appropriate route

We assess the individual’s circumstances to determine whether a one off order or full deputyship is the most suitable option.

Prepare and complete the required Court of Protection application forms

We prepare and complete all required Court of Protection application forms accurately and efficiently.

Liaise with banks, pension providers and care providers

We communicate and coordinate with banks, pension providers and care providers to gather the information needed.

Prepare supporting best interests statements

We draft clear and comprehensive best interests statements tailored to the individual’s needs.

Manage safeguarding concerns relating to financial matters

We identify and manage safeguarding concerns to ensure the individual’s finances are protected at all times.

Provide guidance throughout the application process

We provide clear, practical guidance and support at every stage of the application process.

Our goal:

To ensure finances are managed in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, while protecting wellbeing and financial security.

Next steps

If a Court of Protection financial order may be required to access bank accounts or pension income, early advice can help avoid delays that may impact care arrangements.

Is a one off order or deputyship appropriate?

We help you understand the options and advise on the best route for the individual’s circumstances.

What information is needed for an application?

A COP3 is required for the specific decision, alongside supporting evidence such as bank statements or pension documents.

How long does the process take?

We will give you an overview of timescales so we can work together for the individual.

What are the steps involved in protecting their finances?

We will explain the process from start to finish so you know what to expect at each stage.

Ongoing support after the Court order

Following completion of the authorised financial action, we continue to act as Corporate Appointee, providing ongoing oversight and financial management where required.

Who typically needs this service?

Loss of capacity due to dementia, brain injury or illness.
No Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place.
Bank accounts or pensions cannot be accessed.
Care arrangements require secure funding.
Safeguarding concerns about financial management.
Urgent financial decisions needed to support care or accommodation.

Case studies

Examples of how deputyship and specialist financial management work together to protect clients and support professional teams.

No published case studies in this category yet.

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.