Caroline Hurst
Court of Protection Lawyer
Caroline joined Simpson Millar in January 2019 and has been working in the field of Capacity Law for 10 years.
In her Court of Protection work, Caroline specialises in both health and welfare applications and challenges to an individual's deprivation of liberty.
Caroline's cases involve questions of mental capacity and best interests in relation to various areas, such as where a person lives, what care package they should receive, who they have contact with, whether they can consent to sexual relations, whether they can make decisions about contraception, accessing and using social media and the internet and also marriage.
She has recently started to represent individuals in Public Law challenges in relation to individuals who lack capacity, to ensure that statutory bodies are complying with their duties in respect of care and funding.
Caroline's work also includes bringing damages claims under the Human Rights Act.
The majority of Caroline's case involve her representing the vulnerable person at the centre of the proceedings ("P") and therefore is regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor as litigation friend to P. Caroline does accept instructions from other litigation friends such as an advocate or family member.
Caroline gained an LLB Honours degree from Sheffield Hallam University in 2003 before qualifying as a Chartered Legal Executive in 2011, having completed her course and qualification whilst working in the legal sector.
Caroline is a recommended lawyer in the Legal 500, and has previously been described as a notable practitioner in Chambers and Partners legal directory.
The Legal 500 guide has described Caroline as "fight[ing] fearlessly for her clients".
Caroline writes blogs on topical subjects and is published with Bridget Dolan QC in the Community Care magazine. She is also involved in projects in respect of Women in the Law.
Caroline is a media representative for Epilepsy Action, a member of the Law Society's Lawyers with Disabilities division, a Dementia Champion and is authorised to provide information sessions by the Alzheimer's Society to encourage people to become Dementia Friends.
Interests outside of work
Caroline is a keen baker and will regularly bring samples to the office to the delight of her colleagues. She also enjoys travelling, reading and walking.
Shortlisted for Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year 2018 in the category of social and welfare law.
View Caroline's LinkedIn