When social services become involved due to concerns for a child’s welfare, the resulting process—often referred to as child care proceedings—can be stressful and intimidating. If your family is in this situation, our experienced solicitors are here to help, offering clear advice and empathetic support at every stage.
Local authorities in England and Wales have a responsibility to safeguard children at risk of significant harm. Where serious concerns arise, the local authority may initiate child care proceedings, leading to potential court intervention. While removing a child from their family is the most severe action the state can take, sometimes this step is deemed necessary to ensure the child’s safety.
Common reasons for child care proceedings can include allegations of abuse, severe neglect, or a perceived inability of the parents to provide a safe home environment. Nonetheless, social services often aim to offer support first, and many cases never reach formal court action. When matters do proceed to court, parents and guardians must understand the implications and their legal rights.
If social services have contacted you regarding concerns about your child, it’s critical to seek legal support without delay. Even if you choose not to attend scheduled meetings or hearings, important decisions about your child’s life could be made without your input.
An experienced child care solicitor can:
This early intervention can ensure you fully understand your rights, responsibilities, and the possible outcomes for your family.
If the local authority decides to commence care proceedings, the court will be involved in several stages:
Depending on the child’s needs and the evidence presented, the court might issue one of the following:
Our specialist child care solicitors understand both the legal complexities and emotional toll of care proceedings. We aim to provide:
With our assistance, you can be confident that your voice—and your child’s best interests—are heard.
If you are facing child care proceedings or have been contacted by social services, get in touch for immediate legal advice:
HM & Co. Solicitors
186 Lower Road
Surrey Quays
London SE16 2UN
Telephone: 02071128180
Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com
We’re here to guide you through every stage, offering the knowledge and sensitivity you need to protect your family’s future.
Q: What’s the best way to speak with a solicitor if I’m concerned about child care proceedings?
A: If you need an initial consultation with one of our specialist child law solicitors, please call us on 02071128180 or email us at info@hmsolicitorsltd.com. You can also visit our office in person to discuss your situation.
Q: Are children ever removed from the home without any proof of risk or wrongdoing?
A: Barring an urgent situation involving the police’s emergency powers to protect a child, social services usually require court approval or family agreement before removing a child. This ensures evidence has been presented showing the child is at risk, and a court has decided that removal is necessary.
Q: How long do care proceedings typically last, and can they be extended?
A: The Children and Families Act 2014 stipulates that care proceedings should be concluded within 26 weeks. This time frame aims to reduce uncertainty for both children and families. In exceptional cases with unique complexities, the court may grant an extension, though it’s relatively rare. Throughout the process, our solicitors work to resolve matters promptly while safeguarding the best interests of the child.
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