Sonal Lala
I am a solicitor specialising in community care, education law and cases in the Court of Protection concerning an individual’s mental capacity, best interests and deprivation of liberty. I have a particular interest in protecting the rights of young people and adults with learning disabilities. I have worked with vulnerable clients and their families since I qualified as a solicitor over 10 years ago.
I have significant expertise in representing clients in the Court of Protection in disputes about where an individual should live, their contact with family and friends, and their capacity to marry and enter into sexual relationships. I am regularly instructed by professional advocates, Relevant Person Representatives, family members, carers and the Official Solicitor to represent the interests of incapacitated individuals. I represent clients in disputes concerning their care and support needs. I am frequently instructed to challenge decisions by local authorities where there has been a refusal to undertake an assessment, where a package of care is unsuitable or where that package has been cut. Decisions of this nature leave vulnerable people at risk and our team is here to help you ensure your rights are protected and you can receive access to the right level of care and support.
My practice also extends to helping parents and young people in disputes about the provision of education for their child or themselves. Having worked previously for a local authority, I have the advantage of knowing how local authorities make decisions in relation to the provision of education. I can provide advice and representation in relation obtaining an Education, Health and Care (“EHC”) plan, challenging the contents of an EHC plan as well as representing parents and young people at Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal.
Alongside my busy caseload, I regularly provide training to professional advocates, carers, local authorities and NHS trusts regarding the law relating to mental capacity and community care.
If you would like to know more or have any questions, please contact Sonal on 01926 354704.
