Blog
Capacity to make a Will (“Testamentary Capacity”)
Simon Hardy
Simon is the Head of our Court of Protection team, and has specialised in the property and financial affairs jurisdiction of the Court for over 15 years.
His main role is as a professional Deputy but he also advises on all types of Court of Protection cases with a particular interest in complex cerebral palsy and brain injury cases and (often contested) statutory will or gift applications. He also specialises in the creation and administration of Personal Injury trusts and acting as a professional Trustee. He has many years’ experience of working alongside and supporting litigation lawyers in medical negligence and personal injury cases, including the preparation of expert witness statements in support when necessary. His in depth understanding of such cases is vital in ensuring that an individual’s hard won award of compensation is fully protected and appropriately administered in their best interests.
Simon acts as a professional Deputy and professional Trustee for a broad range of clients, all with a multitude of differing needs and requirements. Many have suffered catastrophic injuries as a result of medical negligence or personal injury, some have a mental illness or dementia, others have a learning disability. Every client is unique and it is impossible to provide a ‘one size fits all’ solution. Simon invests considerable time and energy in getting to know each client and their family so that he and his team can truly provide a bespoke service tailored to their needs.
The role of Deputy or Trustee isn’t simply about being able to know and apply the law. That said, Simon has many years’ practical experience and clients can be confident that he has probably already come across most situations and problems that can arise. He understands his role is incredibly important and will have a direct impact on the day to day lives of his clients. It is about being a good listener, providing a calming voice at times of stress and genuinely caring about creating a positive outcome in the best interests of the client. Simon never forgets that he is simply the custodian of the clients’ money, there to guide and advise, but at his best when he empowers them to live their life in the fullest possible way.
Before becoming a solicitor, Simon served for 8 years as an officer in the Royal Navy. He is proud of his service and believes this has given him a wider perspective on life and made him a more rounded human being. It is the human side of Simon’s work that he most enjoys and these formative years played a big part in making him the dedicated Court of Protection solicitor that he is now.
Simon is recognised by Legal 500 UK 2020 as a leading individual.
what clients and directories say
Simon Hardy is the standout character. A partner with decades of experience that cannot be easily replicated."
The Legal 500, 2025
Simon Hardy is very calm and knowledgeable."
The Legal 500, 2025
Simon Hardy handles the day-to-day transactions, everything runs smoothly, and the team is exceptional - highly recommended."
The Legal 500, 2025
Simon considers his clients' best interests at all times."
Chambers UK, 2024
Simon provides direct and meaningful communication."
Chambers UK, 2024
Simon Hardy is outstanding."
Legal 500
Simon Hardy is approachable, hugely knowledgeable and determined to achieve results that are optimal for his clients."
Legal 500
A great knack of explaining things in a down to earth, matter of fact way that always makes us feel we are in safe and knowledgeable hands.”
Has always acted calmly and thoughtfully, taking care to think through consequences with us and advising us with great sensitivity.”
Simon is not afraid to invest fully in his client, and the team around the client, in a knowledgeable and honest way. This allows us to trust him which results in more stable and therefore more successful outcomes."
Case Manager
Simon is able to identify complex issues early and delivers sensible solutions to families who are under immense stress. Simon has all the attributes I would look for in recommending a Deputy.”
Investment Manager
He manages very complex situations and shows immense patience and an ability to cut through things."
Chambers UK
He is very responsive and has a practical head on his shoulders."
Chambers UK
We have been extremely satisfied with all our dealings with Simon Hardy. Liaising with the Court of Protection, he has guided us through all aspects of managing a large settlement."
Chambers UK
He is very down to earth and practical, and makes sensible decisions about clients."
Chambers UK
Professional societies and memberships
- Trustee of WellChild, the national UK charity for seriously ill children
- CoPPA: The Court of Protection Practitioners
- The Law Society
- Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP)
- The Professional Deputies Forum (PDF)
Simon Hardy is highly professional, personable, and it’s a pleasure to work with him. We have full confidence in his ability to understand the reality of severe disability and normal family life."
Legal 500 UK
Simon's client care is second to none."
Legal 500 UK
