A CHESTER lawyer has been retained as the city’s only representative on the Court of Protection’s approved panel of professional deputies.

Clive Pointon, head of the wills, trusts and tax team at Aaron & Partners LLP on Foregate Street, said it was an honour to be re-appointed to the panel.
A deputy is appointed by the court to manage the financial affairs of a person who is unable to do so for themselves, perhaps as a result of injury or their medical condition.

Mr Pointon was re-appointed to the panel following a rigorous three-stage selection process, and despite the number of deputies across England and Wales being cut from 180 to 60.

The reduction in numbers was the result of a review launched by the Office of the Public Guardian in early 2010.

Joanna Tarne, an associate solicitor at Aaron & Partners, has been included on the new reserve list – adding to the firm’s expertise in this complex and emotionally sensitive area of law.

Mr Pointon, who was first appointed to the panel of deputies at its inception in 2001, added: “With an ageing population, the issue of mental capacity and lasting powers of attorney is becoming increasingly important.

“If an individual loses the capacity to make their own decisions and has no relatives or friends willing or able to act as deputy, the Court of Protection steps in to find a suitable professional deputy to manage their affairs.

“It is a position of immense responsibility and to be retained on the panel, especially after the number of deputies has been reduced, makes me extremely proud.”

Aaron & Partners employs 100 people in total and also has an office on King Street in Manchester.

Mr Pointon added: “As the only law firm in Chester on the panel we are able to offer unique assistance to individuals and their families. 

“The loss of mental capacity is unfortunately a growing issue but we are pleased to be in a position to help.” 

For further information please contact Mike Youds at Outwrite Public Relations on 01352 706260.

Notes to editors:

1.    Aaron & Partners LLP is headquartered in Chester. It works for businesses, public authorities, charities and individuals. It specialises in company and commercial law, commercial property law, dispute resolution and employment law, as well as matrimonial and wills, trusts and tax work. In addition it provides specialist services such as planning, environmental, minerals and waste, renewable energy, road haulage and warehousing, and insolvency & restructuring advice. For more information go to www.aaronandpartners.com