Lester Aldridge expands expertise with new Court of Protection team

This expansion will further enhance the firm’s comprehensive expertise in this growing area of law.

The Court of Protection is a specialised court that safeguards individuals who lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. In certain circumstances, it can also become involved in matters concerning children. The Court has the authority to make decisions on behalf of individuals regarding their finances, welfare, medical treatment, and other important matters. Additionally, the Court can appoint deputies to manage their affairs.

Joining Lester Aldridge as a Partner is Jeremy Abraham, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in family law, both as a lawyer and a mediator. Jeremy’s interest in mental capacity and disability issues has led him to act as a Court of Protection Deputy in complex financial cases. He is a trustee of several private trusts and a member of the Office of the Public Guardian’s deputy panel, providing deputies in cases of last resort.

Senior Associate Philippa Davies, who specialises in Court of Protection work, will support Jeremy Abraham in his role as a panel deputy for the Office of the Public Guardian. Philippa’s expertise lies in representing the best interests of individuals lacking the mental capacity to advocate for themselves, particularly in matters related to property and affairs. She regularly prepares applications for the Court of Protection on issues such as statutory wills and property transactions.

Philippa also assists Jeremy in managing the financial affairs of individuals who have received personal injury awards and can no longer manage their own finances. Additionally, Philippa is experienced in health and welfare matters, advising on cases involving elderly vulnerable people and allegations of abuse. She also provides guidance on family law, with a focus on divorce and financial remedy proceedings. In 2019, Philippa was shortlisted for the Young Solicitor of the Year award at the Family Law Awards.

Kris Gungah, a paralegal with significant experience in the Court of Protection field since July 2012, also joins the team. Kris has previously served as a client affairs officer and is a student member of CILEx (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) and a member of CoPPA (Court of Protection Practitioners Association). He holds a CILEx Level 3 Certificate in Law & Practice (Elderly Client Practice) and is continuing his studies with CILEx.

Kurt Lee, Partner and Head of Private Client at Lester Aldridge, commented on the new additions: "We are really excited to welcome Jeremy, Philippa, and Kris to our team. Their collective expertise and dedication to protecting the rights and interests of vulnerable individuals will be invaluable to our clients and will provide significant depth of experience in this area of law. This expansion underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate legal support in the Court of Protection field."

Photo, left to right: Kris Gungah, Jeremy Abraham and Philippa Davies