For Vulnerable People

Vulnerable People

SOPS solicitors not only assist older people but are also experienced in helping other vulnerable groups in society.  We operate the same code of practice in dealing with these groups and seek to provide legal services in a caring and sensitive way.

Legal Aid

We assess all clients for legal aid and many vulnerable people do qualify.  If a client qualifies for legal aid we will get it for them.  In areas of work with vulnerable people – for example applying for some guardianships – legal aid is not means tested.  Effectively non means tested means free legal aid.

Mental Health

A detention under the mental health legislation can be devastating for individuals and families.  Free legal aid is available to any detained patient and we are happy to do hospital visits.  We can get second medical opinions and appear at tribunals as necessary.  We can liaise and assist the “Named Person” chosen by the patient to assist and we can apply for the named person for free legal aid.  Again if a person with a mental illness wishes to make an Advance Statement under the legislation legal aid is available for that too, should the patient want to do a statement formally.  We can assist in challenging Compulsory Treatment Orders where appropriate.

Children and Young Persons

Our solicitors are frequently involved with this potentially vulnerable group.  Commonly we are involved in connection with issues of contact and residence for parents in the context of separations or divorces, but there are many other scenarios where we can help. 

Loss of Legal Capacity

All older people should anticipate possible future incapacity by preparing a power of attorney.  Where incapacity strikes and this has not been done, court applications for guardianships or intervention orders are necessary.  Our solicitors are familiar with this work and we try to demystify and explain the court proceedings in simple terms.

Home Visits and Free First Interviews

These are available to all vulnerable clients where necessary.  Visits also can be made to hospitals, care homes and sheltered housing units as necessary.  Many vulnerable clients find visits to solicitors’ offices a bit daunting and we try to respond to that where we reasonably can. 

If you have a professional, social or family connection with any vulnerable person possibly in need of legal help please do not hesitate to phone.  We are happy to discuss matters on the telephone, give guidance and advice towards possible solutions with no charge or obligation whatsoever.

TELEPHONE   0800 152 2037