Watch our Managing Partner, Jane Bennett, explain what the Court of Protection is, how it works, the roles of lay and professional deputies and how lawyers can assist both the client and their loved ones.
JE Bennett Law launched in 2012 as specialist Court of Protection Solicitors. As the leading Court of Protection solicitors in Tunbridge Wells, Kent our team of experienced, dedicated lawyers typically help clients throughout Kent, London and the South East. However, we also able to represent people across the UK.
‘JE Bennett are market leaders in their particular legal sector. With years of experience in COP/vulnerable client welfare and a team of approachable, knowledgeable lawyers and support staff, they provide excellent advice… never losing the personal touch.’ Testimonial from: The Legal 500, 2026.
JE Bennett Law is highly ranked for Court of Protection services by the most prestigious legal research organisations. The firm is ranked by both The Legal 500 and Chambers and a number of our team are individually rated by the same organisations.
The firm is also represented on the Office of the Public Guardian’s national panel of professional deputies. Typically, these appointments are where vulnerable people require representation in order to manage their property and affairs and/or their care and welfare. This could be due to a brain injury; illness; clinical negligence or age-related issues.
The team offers a gold standard service around all areas of deputyship work, with strict adherence to professional standards.
JE Bennett Law is a family run firm that prides itself on it’s friendliness, approachability and understanding. We are passionate about providing the best possible service for our clients. JE Bennett’s team has a tight rein on spending. Our adherence to budgeting promotes very careful handling of our clients’ affairs and personal interests.
In addition, to providing professional deputyship services, we also advise lay deputies to ensure every aspect of the vulnerable person’s needs are appropriately managed.
It is also possible for the Court of Protection to appoint a professional deputy – solicitors such as ourselves.
For more information on deputyships, read our Lay and Professional Deputies section or download our info sheet from our Library section.
Lay Deputies are typically a family member of someone who lacks the ability to make decisions for themselves.
There are 2 types of deputyship:
property and financial affairs – for example paying bills, selling or buying a house
personal welfare – for example making decisions about medical treatment, contact with family etc.
I would like to thank Jane Bennett for the expert help I received from her in a delicate matter surrounding Lasting Power of Attorney and the loss of capacity of a family member. Jane was able to draw on a wealth of specialist knowledge and experience both to guide me and, when needed, to act decisively. At each stage of the process, I have felt listened to, supported and treated with the upmost professionalism and warmth, not only by Jane but by all those I encountered at Jane Bennett Law.
"Thank you for all the work you have done for me over the years"
"Sought the assistance of J E Bennett Law when seeking a Deputy Application, followed by a Second Trustee Application. The, advice service and support I received throughout was exceptionally impressive, leaving me reassured and confident that all was being done to expedite the applications and bring the matters to a timely and successful conclusion. No question or concern was too small for my solicitor Lorna who was always considerate and genuinely supportive. I would highly recommend J E Bennett Solicitors, especially Lorna. I will be looking to use their services again in the future."
'Highly professional service at a fair price. An experienced and user-friendly team'
'A very strong team ethic as the practice has developed over the last few years. Jane Bennett is a leading industry figure, with a strong business acumen built upon excellent client care. Lorna Halfpenny-Beeby is a rising star of the team'
'Jane Bennett is always prompt and deals with instructions efficiently. She is helpful and approachable. I value her professionalism and turnaround times in cases where things can be a bit last minute. Jane always delivers for us.'
'Richard is very practically involved with his clients. He is highly respected by clients and professionals alike. Richard is very approachable and is obviously highly skilled and knowledgeable'
'Lorna is infectiously passionate about promoting independence and is happy to think outside the box in ensuring her clients have access to the necessary support and rehabilitation services. Her approach is one of someone highly skilled in her field. Lorna remains professional at all times and nothing seems too much'
Jemma (Cahan) is a first-class solicitor who can be relied upon to do her very best for those she represents.
Eridge House, 1 Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 8HH
JE Bennett Law is a Limited company incorporated in England and Wales (No.7875908), and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No.565975). VAT No. 137814893
