Emma Neale

I am an associate solicitor in the Court of Protection Department at David Gray Solicitors. I am also a Law Society Mental Capacity Accredited Lawyer – also known as an Accredited Legal Representative (ALR).

I am regularly instructed to represent individuals who lack capacity in proceedings about their welfare, either by the Official Solicitor to act as litigation friend or appointed by the court as an Accredited Legal Representative.

The Court of Protection makes decisions about incredibly important aspects of people’s lives, including where they live and who they can have contact with. I take an empathetic approach which makes people feel at ease and I will always ensure that the rights of the person are protected and their views heard.

I also represent family members before the Court of Protection which can be a stressful and uncertain time. I ensure that I listen, take time to advise about the process, and work hard to achieve the best possible outcome.

I started working at the firm in 2018, firstly as a paralegal, and then as a trainee solicitor. I qualified as a solicitor in September 2021 after completing an undergraduate and masters degree in Law from Northumbria University.

Find out more about Emma and her route to becoming a solicitor in our ‘‘A cuppa with’ series.