Child Law
If social services have raised concerns about your child, it is frightening, and the steps that follow can move quickly. You have the right to be represented, and you do not have to face it alone. We stand with parents and families through every stage, with care and without judgement.
What you should know
Care proceedings are brought by a local authority when it has serious concerns about a child's safety or wellbeing. They are dealt with under the Children Act 1989, and the court works to a statutory timetable, usually twenty-six weeks. It can feel overwhelming, but at every stage your voice as a parent matters, and the court must consider keeping families together wherever it is safe.
Often the first sign is a letter inviting you to a pre-proceedings meeting. Getting advice at that early stage can make a real difference to what happens next. Most of this work is covered by Legal Aid regardless of your income, and we will check your eligibility at your free initial consultation. Choose the service closest to your situation below, or speak to us in confidence.
The public law matters we represent families in most often.
Representation for parents and families through care proceedings, from pre-proceedings to final hearing. Legal Aid usually available.
Learn moreFor relatives or close carers seeking to give a child a secure, permanent home through a Special Guardianship Order.
Learn moreThe sooner you get advice, the more we can do to help. Tell us what has happened and we will explain the process gently and clearly, check whether Legal Aid covers your case, and tell you what to expect next. Everything you share is confidential, and there is no obligation.
