SALE law company Slater Heelis has become the only firm in the North West to have two prestigious Court of Protection Panel Deputies.

Katharine Peterson has joined Slater Heelis and will work alongside experienced Panel Deputy and Court of Protection solicitor Chris Partington, the Head of the firm’s Private Client team.

Slater Heelis’s Panel Deputies are appointed by the Office of the Public Guardian and are enrolled on to a respected, court-approved list. The courts can choose deputies from this list in lieu of an able or willing volunteer to act for a person who lacks the mental capacity to manage their own affairs.

Katharine spent 12 years heading up the Court of Protection team at specialist serious injury solicitors Potter Rees Dolan, and will enhance the team with her wealth of experience in supporting younger clients who have suffered severe injuries.

Chris Partington, said: “To be recognised by the Office of Public Guardian is extremely important and something that is hugely valuable to our clients.

"The fact that Slater Heelis now has two Panel Deputies, more than any other firm in the North West, reaffirms our commitment to providing the best possible legal support to individuals who can no longer manage their own affairs.

“Katharine’s vast experience in supporting a younger client base, especially children and young adults who’ve suffered severe brain injuries due to accidents, assault or clinical negligence, will be a great asset to our team.”

Katharine said: “I joined Slater Heelis because the firm is well respected for its excellent service for clients and there was a great opportunity to develop the Court of Protection work even further. The team has done an amazing job supporting clients who struggle with a mental capacity and I’m looking forward to adding to its success.”