Care Proceedings Solicitors in Leeds

Care proceedings take place when the local authority believes that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering significant harm and applies to the Family Court fto intervene. The Court will determine where the child should live and whether a care order or supervision order should be made. This can sometimes result in a child being placed in foster care if the Court believes that the risks are too high for the child to remain living with a parent or a family member. 

1. Application by a Local Authority

• The local authority submits an application to the Family Court.

• A Children’s Guardian (from CAFCASS) is appointed to represent the child’s interests.

• The child's parents will be sent court papers outlining concerns and the proposed action.

2. Case Management Hearing (CMH)

• The Court identifies the key issues and decides whether expert assessments (e.g., psychological or or drug / alcohol tetsing) are needed.

• A court timetable is set for the submission of all evidence.

• The Court will also dtermine where the child(ren) shall live before the next hearing

3. Issues Resolution Hearing (IRH)

• This hearing can be used as a final healring if all parties agree what is best for the child(ren).  

• If there is no agreement, the case will normally be listed for a final hearing.

4. Final Hearing

• The judge examines all evidence, including witness statements and the parents, social worker and Children's Guardian will normally give evidence in the witness box.

• A final decision is made regarding what is in the child's best interests.

Our specialist care proceedings solicitors in Leeds provide:

• We have a nationwide reputation for fighting our client's corner and that is why we are asked to represent clients from all over the country.

• Emergency legal advice if care proceedings are issued.

• Representation in court to protect your rights.

• Support to challenge social services decisions.

• Legal aid is available for most cases.

Our care proceedings solicitors in Leeds offer advice and representation to families on all aspects of social services involvement with children such as:-

• Child in Need Plans
• Child Protection Plans / Child Protection Conferences
• Section 37 Assessments
• PLO Meeting
• Emergency Protection Orders (EPO)
• Care Proceedings in Court
• Interim Care Orders (ICO)
• Interim Supervision Orders (ISO)
• Adoption
• Special Guardianship Orders