Senior Associate and solicitor, Gemma Hopper, from the Court of Protection department at leading law firm Nelsons, has been recognised with a national accreditation for her expertise in providing legal support for older and vulnerable clients, their families and carers.
The accreditation is awarded by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly) – an organisation setting the standards for the highest quality legal advice in specialist areas, such as wills, powers of attorney, deputyships and elder abuse.
To achieve the accreditation, Gemma completed an assessment to demonstrate a solid understanding of the specific needs and considerations required when safeguarding and protecting older clients’ interests.
Since joining Nelsons in 2019 as a Court of Protection solicitor, Gemma provides specialist support to clients who lack the mental capacity to make decisions in relation to their property and financial affairs. She brings a wealth of experience and focusses on supporting and empowering Nelsons’ elderly clients. This has given her a unique understanding and insight that allows her to approach all clients sensitively and provide advice on what is sometimes a life-changing decision.
Gemma said: “I am delighted to be an SFE full accredited member and hope it will enable me to support more clients and their families.
“At Nelsons, we strive to give a voice to everyone who needs it, and in my case, it is so important for more vulnerable or elderly clients. Being accredited marks a great milestone in my career and I am very proud of the accomplishment.”
Craig Staten-Spencer, legal director and trust manager at Nelsons, said: “Becoming an SFE full accredited member is a great achievement for Gemma, but also for the court of protection team and firm as a whole. Guiding our more senior or vulnerable clients is an important part of our work at Nelsons, and I am pleased to see Gemma’s contributions have been recognised.”
Lakshmi Turner, chief executive of SFE, said: “When it comes to planning ahead for later life, getting the right advice is essential. An SFE accredited lawyer is an expert in this area of the law and understands the wider, often sensitive, issues around health, care and family that may need consideration. SFE lawyers understand the issues affecting older and vulnerable clients and follow a strict code of practice with respect and dignity at its heart.
“Ultimately, choosing an SFE lawyer means you’ll be guided through this complex and sensitive area of law and will enable you to lay solid foundations to protect you and your loved ones in later life.”
