Children’s care issues can present the Court with the most challenging decisions of all. When a child is placed into Care by Social Services, the child’s welfare will be the over-riding factor for the Court when determining their future.

QualitySolicitors will be able to provide sensitive, practical and expert advice.

These proceedings are brought under part four of the Children Act. They are orders usually brought by the local authority or other authorised bodies, in an order to secure the welfare of the child. These include care orders, residence orders, supervision orders, emergency protection orders and secure accommodation orders.

The child is the party of the proceedings and is represented by a guardian appointed by CAFCASS.

The guardian’s role is to ensure the child’s future is secured and the best plans are made by the Court. The child and the guardian are usually represented by the same solicitor.

CAFCASS stands for Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. They are a non-departmental public body accountable to the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.

CAFCASS is independent of the Courts, Social Services, education and health authorities and all similar agencies.

Child welfare matters require the help of specialist Lawyers who have experience of dealing with such sensitive cases and who knows how the Courts reach decisions in these types of cases. It is advisable to seek the guidance of a Care specialist Solicitor who is a member of the Children Panel of the Solicitor’s Regulation Authority. They will be able to advise you on your rights and help you work out the options going forwards

In most Care proceedings, parents are entitled to free legal aid.