Mental Capacity Issues

When someone’s ability to make decisions is affected, it can raise serious legal and
emotional questions. At Heppenstalls, we help families understand their rights, explore
their options, and support vulnerable individuals with care and professionalism.

Understanding Mental Capacity Issues

Mental capacity is the ability to make decisions for yourself – from managing money to choosing where to live or consenting to medical treatment. It can be affected by conditions such as dementia, brain injury, or mental illness, whether temporarily or long-term.

We support families in navigating these complex situations, whether that’s through mental capacity assessments, planning ahead with Powers of Attorney, or applying to the Court of Protection. Our goal is to ensure that vulnerable individuals are protected, and that decisions made on their behalf are in their best interests.

Decision-making and Mental Capacity

Losing the ability to make decisions can happen gradually or unexpectedly. Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a change, knowing your options can make all the difference.

We can help you:

Understand what mental capacity means

and how it’s assessed under the Mental Capacity Act.

Act lawfully and responsibly

when making decisions on someone else’s behalf.

Avoid legal uncertainty

by ensuring the correct steps are taken.

Feel confident in your role

with clear guidance tailored to your situation.

Expert Legal Guidance

We’ve helped many families through the uncertainty of capacity-related challenges. Our approach is personal, practical, and always focused on the individual’s needs.

Real people, real understanding

We listen, we care and we’re here when it matters.

Compassionate, client-focused support

For both individuals and families.

Clear, honest advice

Free from jargon or judgment.

End-to-end support

From planning to Court applications and ongoing

What Our Clients Say

We’re proud to be the legal partner of choice for so many individuals and families. Here’s what our clients have to say about working with Heppenstalls.

Exceptionally Good Service

From the first phone call with Roz we were confident that we were speaking with someone with broad knowledge and experience of Deputyship. Until the need to apply for Deputyship we knew nothing about it. Throughout the application for a Court Order Roz was supportive and professional at the same time as being a friendly contact.

Anonymous

Exceptionally Good Service

From the first phone call with Roz we were confident that we were speaking with someone with broad knowledge and... Read more

Anonymous

Thank you Roz for dealing with our LPAs so efficiently and with such kindness. Your advice was most helpful and we appreciated being kept up to date via email

Anonymous

Thank you Roz for dealing with our LPAs so efficiently and with such kindness. Your advice was most helpful and... Read more

Thank you Roz for dealing with our LPAs so efficiently and with such kindness. Your advice was most helpful and we appreciated being kept up to date via email Read less

Anonymous

It was a great pleasure to meet with you on Monday and I cannot speak too highly of your kindness, consideration, and invaluable professional help.

Anonymous

It was a great pleasure to meet with you on Monday and I cannot speak too highly of your kindness,... Read more

It was a great pleasure to meet with you on Monday and I cannot speak too highly of your kindness, consideration, and invaluable professional help. Read less

Anonymous

We used Heppenstalls to sort out my mum’s LPA. Roz was extremely helpful and efficient. She was able to come to the house which made things much easier for my parents. Roz was very compassionate during a very difficult time. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Heppenstalls. Thank you.

Claire C

We used Heppenstalls to sort out my mum’s LPA. Roz was extremely helpful and efficient. She was able to come... Read more

Claire C

Power of attorney advice

Very helpful advice from Jesamine easy to understand and clear advice.

Hilary O

Power of attorney advice

Very helpful advice from Jesamine easy to understand and clear advice. Read more

Very helpful advice from Jesamine easy to understand and clear advice. Read less

Hilary O

Frequently Asked Questions

Dementia, brain injury, stroke, and some mental health conditions can impact a person’s ability to make decisions.

A medical or legal assessment may be required, depending on the situation.

Yes. Capacity can vary depending on the type and complexity of the decision. It is important to always allow a person the time and support they need to make their own decision.

A Court of Protection application may be needed to appoint a Deputy.

Not always. Capacity is decision-specific and must be properly assessed.

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Other Trusted Services

We offer a wide range of legal services for individuals, families, and businesses. Whether you’re planning ahead, navigating a challenge, or managing property or business matters, our solicitors are here to simplify the process and support you every step of the way.

Mental Capacity Issues

When someone’s ability to make decisions is affected, it can raise serious legal and
emotional questions. At Heppenstalls, we help families understand their rights, explore
their options, and support vulnerable individuals with care and professionalism.

Understanding Mental Capacity Issues

Decision-making and Mental Capacity