Douglas Houghton

Doug is a legal director in the personal planning and management team, specialising in Court of Protection matters, both contentious and non-contentious, and acts as one of the firm’s professional deputies.
As a deputy, he manages the financial affairs of individuals who lack capacity, working with people who have experienced life-changing injuries, those living in care settings, and individuals in the community with mental health needs. He is often appointed where there is no suitable family member to act or where independent oversight is required.
He advises individuals and professionals on deputyship and attorneyship, as well as the management of property and financial affairs under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. His work includes supporting applications in the Court of Protection, including deputy appointments, statutory wills, property transactions, gifting applications and matters involving financial abuse.
Before specialising in Court of Protection work, he gained experience in private client litigation, including wills, trusts and estate disputes and contentious Court of Protection matters. He is a full member of ACTAPS and an associate member of Solicitors for the Elderly, and is recognised for his calm, steady approach and insight.