Care Proceedings

Contact a solicitor straight away. This is a formal step before court proceedings. We will review the letter, explain the concerns raised, advise you on your options, and prepare you for the PLO meeting.

Children’s Services can apply to the court to remove a child if they believe the child is at risk of significant harm. It is possible for the police to involve their powers of protection and remove a child for 72 hours. It is important to seek legal advice immediately if children’s services are discussing removal or court action.

A Care Order gives the local authority parental responsibility for a child and allows them to make decisions about the child’s care and living arrangements.

A Care Order allows the local authority to share parental responsibility and make important decisions about the child’s care. A Supervision Order allows Children’s Services to monitor and support the family while the child remains at home.

The court will consider immediate safeguarding concerns, interim arrangements for the child, and what further assessments or evidence are needed. Temporary decisions may be made while the case continues.

Yes. The court will often consider whether a child can live safely with a family member before long-term foster care is considered. Grandparents and other family members may be assessed as potential carers during proceedings.

If Social Services become involved, it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible. Early support can help you understand your rights, respond to concerns effectively, and prepare for any meetings or assessments. Hatch Brenner’s care proceedings solicitors provide clear guidance, explain the role of social workers and the court, help families access Legal Aid where available, and represent parents, carers, and family members throughout the process if proceedings are issued.

Care proceedings are started by the local authority when there are concerns that a child may be at risk of harm. The Family Court will consider evidence from social workers and other professionals, including assessments relating to parenting, mental health, domestic abuse, substance misuse, and family support networks. The court may make interim or final orders concerning a child’s care and living arrangements, always focusing on the child’s best interests. Most cases are expected to conclude within 26 weeks, although more complex matters can take longer.

Before issuing care proceedings, Children’s Services will usually begin the pre-proceedings process. This gives parents an opportunity to address concerns and work with support services before court action is considered. You may receive a Letter Before Proceedings outlining concerns, expectations, and details of a PLO meeting. Early legal advice is vital at this stage, helping you understand the concerns raised, respond appropriately, and demonstrate positive changes that may reduce the likelihood of court proceedings.

A PLO (Public Law Outline) meeting is often the final opportunity to resolve concerns before care proceedings are issued. The meeting involves parents, Children’s Services, and legal representatives, with the aim of agreeing a plan to improve the child’s situation and avoid court action where possible. Hatch Brenner’s solicitors prepare clients for the meeting, attend alongside them, explain what to expect, and ensure their views and circumstances are properly represented throughout discussions.

A Section 20 Agreement allows Children’s Services to accommodate a child voluntarily without a court order. While these arrangements can be appropriate in some circumstances, they can also have significant implications for parents and children. Parents are not required to agree to a Section 20 arrangement and can withdraw consent in certain situations. It is important to obtain legal advice before making any decision. Hatch Brenner’s solicitors can explain your rights, assess whether the arrangement is appropriate, and advise on the best course of action for your family.

An Emergency Protection Order is an urgent court order that may be sought when Children’s Services believe a child is at immediate risk of harm. These applications often proceed very quickly and may be heard with little notice. Hatch Brenner’s solicitors can provide immediate legal advice, represent parents at urgent hearings, explain the effect and duration of any orders made, and advise family members who may be able to care for the child as an alternative to foster care.

If a child cannot safely remain with their parents, the court will often consider whether they can live with a suitable family member or connected person. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and other relatives may be assessed as potential carers. Hatch Brenner advises family members on kinship care arrangements, Special Guardianship Orders, assessments, and the practical and legal steps involved in caring for a child within the wider family network.

Yes. Legal Aid is generally available for parents involved in care proceedings, PLO meetings, and emergency child protection applications, regardless of income or savings. Hatch Brenner’s solicitors can advise on eligibility, help secure funding quickly, and ensure you have access to legal representation from the earliest stage of the process.