“Libra are the voice, for those without a voice, and will always put the Relevant Person first and ensure their best interest is met.” DoLS Team Manager
What is Litigation friend and who can be one?
A Litigation Friend is person appointed by the court to manage legal proceedings on behalf of someone who cannot do it themselves. This can be for to a child under 18 or an adult lacking mental capacity in civil, family law, or Court of Protection cases.
The court can appoint anyone to be a Litigation Friend, for example:
- a parent or guardian
- a family member or friend
- a solicitor
- a professional advocate, such as an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA)
- a Court of Protection deputy
- someone who has a lasting or enduring power of attorney
What does a Litigation Friend do?
The litigation friend will make decisions in the best interests of the person they are supporting, consulting them on their views and keeping them appropriately informed about the case.
- Make Decisions: Act in the best interest of the child or protected party, not for their own benefit.
- Instruct Solicitors: Work with legal counsel to provide instructions and manage the case.
- Represent Interests: Gather the person’s wishes and feelings to communicate them to the court
- Sign Documents: Sign necessary court papers and settlement documents.
How can Libra Partnership help?
Libra Partnership have over 10 years of experience providing professional Litigation Friend services to protected parties in Family, Civil and Court of Protection cases for Local Authorities and solicitors. The team are trained professionals who undertake CPD, regular supervision and
Our trained Litigation Friends are.
- Professional, reliable & efficient
- Well informed – with a strong working understanding of capacity, best interests and court processes
- Advocacy-led – ensuring the individual’s voice, wishes and rights remain central to proceedings.
Make a referral
Please note, we can only accept referrals from Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, ICB and solicitors. We are unable to accept referrals from private parties or self referrals.
