COP1 — Application to the Court of Protection
The main application form to start proceedings in the Court of Protection, covering decisions about property and financial affairs, or health and welfare matters for persons lacking mental capacity.
Who uses this form
Family members, carers, solicitors, local authorities, or the Official Solicitor applying for a welfare or financial order in relation to a person who may lack mental capacity under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
When to use it
Use when someone lacks capacity to make a specific decision and a court order is needed — for example, to authorise a property sale, make a welfare decision, or appoint a deputy. Must be accompanied by COP3 (capacity assessment).
Where to file
Court of Protection, First Avenue House, 42–49 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NP. Applications can also be started online via MyHMCTS.
Court fee
£371 (general application); £494 for appointing a deputy.
Fee remission
Help with Fees (EX160) available.
Common mistakes to avoid
Not including COP3 (capacity assessment by a professional) — the application will not proceed without it
Not notifying P (the person lacking capacity) in the prescribed manner using form COP14
Failing to identify whether the application is for property/financial affairs or health/welfare (or both)
Not serving relevant family members and interested parties
Underestimating the time the proceedings take — urgent applications (COP9) are available for genuine emergencies
Related Guides
Official source
Download / view form on GOV.UK or HMCTSAlways download forms directly from official government sources. Third-party copies may be outdated.