Service categories: Legal help

Service URL: http://www.slaterheelis.co.uk/

At Slater Heelis, we understand the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and families, and we are committed to providing compassionate, personalised legal services. Our team of experts offer support and understanding to clients with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions, ensuring they receive the guidance they need throughout the legal process. 

Our team recognises that each person’s needs and communication preferences are different. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or for a loved one, we approach each case with care, flexibility, and sensitivity.  

Slater Heelis offers a range of legal services that can be beneficial for neurodivergent people and their carers. Here’s how these services are specifically adapted to support the unique needs of clients and their families: 

Wills and Estate Planning

Our legal advisors can help to set up wills, trusts, and financial plans to ensure long-term care and stability for neurodivergent people. This can include setting up discretionary or vulnerable persons’ trusts that protect family assets whilst ensuring that a neurodivergent individual remains eligible to claim state benefits.

Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA):

Establishing an LPA is an important tool for empowering a trusted individual to make financial health or welfare decisions, should a vulnerable person require support with making these decisions. We guide our clients through the process with sensitivity and clarity, explaining the options and implications in ways that are easily understood by both the neurodivergent person and their caregivers. 

Family Law and Parenting Support

Slater Heelis provides family law services for parents of autistic children going through separation or divorce, structuring child custody arrangements to maintain stability and routine, while also advising on parental responsibility, guardianship, and child maintenance to preserve the child's well-being.  

Court of Protection and Deputyship

In cases where an autistic individual lacks the capacity to make certain decisions or manage their own financial affairs, the Court of Protection can appoint a deputy to make financial decisions in their best interests, and our team can provide guidance in navigating this process, helping caregivers or family members apply for a financial deputyship order while also offering ongoing support and advice to financial deputies to ensure informed decisions are made.  Slater Heelis has a designated Court of Protection Department with a wealth of knowledge and experience managing the finances of those who lack capacity. Slater Heelis Trust Corporation can act as a Professional financial Attorney or Deputy, if required.  

Employment Law and Workplace Discrimination

Our employment law team can provide guidance for autistic and ADHD individuals who face workplace discrimination on the grounds of neurodiversity, helping with employment issues, requests for reasonable adjustments, or tribunal claims arising from such discrimination. 

Dispute Resolution and Mediation

For autistic clients or families facing disputes—whether in housing, care arrangements, or other areas—Slater Heelis offers mediation and dispute resolution services that guide clients through the process in a way that reduces stress and encourages positive outcomes, using clear, non-confrontational communication, which is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent clients who may find traditional dispute resolution settings overwhelming. 

Criminal Defence for Adults and Minors 

Our criminal defence team understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism in the legal system and offer tailored support and strategies to ensure their rights are protected. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations can occur, leading to unwarranted accusations or charges. Our solicitors are experienced in supporting autistic adults and minors who have been accused of committing a crime. We will ensure you’re fully supported throughout the legal process, while communicating clearly and patiently, taking the time to explain each step. 

Property Matters & Disputes

We can support with property transactions, residential and commercial property management and tenancy disputes, ensuring clients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process while protecting the rights of neurodivergent individuals in a way that minimises stress.

Aimed at: Adult , Adult sibling, Anyone with an Association to Autism, Parent or carer of under 18, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Parent/carer of an adult, Parents or carers, families, adults, Partner

Specialisms: Autism and Neurodivergent , Staff and volunteers get autism awareness training

Other specialisms: Staff are also trained and accredited by the LGBT Foundation on LGBTQIA+ matters.