McGee McGee Agar Law Limited
Email office@mcgeemcgeeagarlaw.co.uk Phone 24 hour helpline: 01642 941440
Care Proceedings Solicitors

Care Proceedings Solicitors

Get Your Free 30 minute consultation
Rated Excellent 100% 5 star reviews on reviews.io

MMA Law can represent you for any type of offence

Why Work With Us?

Care Proceedings Solicitors at McGee McGee Agar Law have a wealth of experience of dealing the care of children. Our Expert solicitors will work to handle your case with care and we know how difficult and unsettling such times are, therefore we strive to provide the very best representation in handling your care proceedings case. You’ll find us sympathetic, sensitive, highly professional and extremely knowledgeable. You can always request a free consultation with a care proceedings solicitor today.

Get Your Free Consultation
Why Work With Us?

We Understand The Law

What Are Care Proceedings?

Care proceedings are legal processes initiated by a local authority when they have concerns about the safety or welfare of a child. These proceedings are intended to protect children who are at risk of significant harm, whether due to neglect, abuse, or other serious issues.

The Purpose of Care Proceedings

The primary aim of care proceedings is to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. This may involve:

-Assessing the Child's Needs: Determining what is in the best interest of the child through thorough assessments.

Protecting the Child: Taking necessary steps to protect the child from immediate harm.

Providing Support: Offering support and interventions to families to address underlying issues.

Key Stages in Care Proceedings

1. Pre-Proceedings Stage: Before formal court action, the local authority may work with the family to resolve issues through support and intervention. This is often done through a process called the Public Law Outline (PLO).

2. Initiation of Proceedings: If pre-proceedings efforts fail, the local authority may apply to the court to initiate care proceedings.

3. Interim Care Orders: The court may issue interim orders to ensure the child's immediate safety while the case is ongoing.

4. Case Management Hearing: Early hearings to plan the timetable and next steps for the proceedings.

5. Final Hearing: The court will make a final decision about the child’s care, which could include returning to family, staying with extended family, or entering foster care or adoption.

Roles and Responsibilities

- Local Authority: Responsible for investigating concerns and taking necessary action to protect the child.

- Parents/Guardians: Entitled to legal representation and participation in the proceedings.

- Children’s Guardian: An independent advocate for the child's best interests, often appointed by the court.

- The Court: Makes decisions based on evidence presented, focusing on the child’s welfare.

Legal Orders in Care Proceedings

Several types of orders can be made, including:

-Care Orders: Granting the local authority parental responsibility.

- Supervision Orders: Placing the child under the supervision of the local authority while remaining at home.

- Emergency Protection Orders: Providing immediate short-term protection for the child.

- Placement Orders: Allowing the local authority to place the child for adoption.

Your Rights and Support

- Legal Representation: Parents are entitled to free legal representation.

- Advocacy Services: Support for understanding and navigating the process.

- Family Support: Various services to help address underlying issues within the family.

FAQs

What triggers care proceedings?

Care proceedings are typically triggered by significant concerns about a child’s safety, such as neglect or abuse.

How long do care proceedings take?

The duration can vary, but the aim is to conclude within 26 weeks from the start of proceedings.

Can I get my child back after a care order?

Yes, but it involves a legal process and demonstrating that the circumstances have changed and the child’s safety and welfare are assured.

Conclusion

Care proceedings are vital in safeguarding children at risk. Understanding the process and knowing your rights can help navigate these challenging circumstances. If you need assistance or legal advice, reach out to a qualified solicitor or support service.

Funding Your Case

We will assess your eligibility for Legal Aid and if you are not eligible, we will provide you with an agreed fee to represent you to conclusion of your case.

Get Your Free Consultation

Trusted by many others just like you

Your 5 Star Firm

Finding the courage to sieze an opportunity to leave an abusive marriage, I knew I needed a solicitor I could trust. Having know Matthew for a number of years and working alongside him professionally, there was no one else I would have turned to. Matthew and his team were fantastic. I felt supported...

Carly Devon-Brough
Verified Verified

I’d firstly like to thank Paul and team for the support during a difficult time. First class professional who knows his job that good. Fully recommend MMA as they are supportive and really know what to do and the win. Wish you all the very best. 100%.

Michael Thompson
Verified Verified

I would definatly reccomend. They have all been so helpful, understanding and caring throughout. My divorce is now complete and i am really happy with the service i recieved. Thank you.

Zoe Leech
Verified Verified

I can whole heartedly endorse Melissa and the rest of the team at McGee McGee Agar Law. The outstanding professionalism in which my case was handled was second to none. The swift and timely updates to any questions or changes throughout the process of my case was extremely appreciated. But most of a...

Anonymous
Verified Verified

MMA are a fantastic Law firm if you require representation on any matter. Communication is key in all instances and MMA did not fail at all. They have all the resources available to cover any situation you require. Thanks Matthew and team for all your help.

Paul Dilks
Verified Verified

Highly recommend McGee McGee .they took my case on after I had spent a lot of money on a big well known solicitors. Very straight forward to work with and easily contactable.I will be recommending this company to any one who is in need of expert advice and help . Thankyou to you all

Lee Dale
Verified Verified

I can't praise paul enough. He was always at hand for anything I needed, his expertise and knowledge are outstanding. I would highly recommend McGee Agar Law. You will not be disappointed

Simon Wright
Verified Verified

An extremely professional and personable service from Matthew Agar! Advice and communication was above and beyond, and nothing was too much trouble. A different level of legal service in the local area and would highly recommend to anyone who needs legal help or advice and wants a reliable, person...

Lesley
Verified Verified

I have recently been represented by Matthew Agar in a family matter regarding the custody arrangements for my children. The information, advice and guidance provided to me by Matthew has been nothing short of outstanding. I spoke to several solicitors before instructing Matthew. Despite ther...

Anonymous
Verified Verified

Very professional and straight to the point.

Sophie Singh

Get your free 30 minute consultation

Speak with one of our Specialist Solicitors in Criminal or Family Law.

Here at MMA Law we strive to offer same day appointments and we will make one of our expert Solicitors available to you.

© Copyright 2018 - 2024 McGee McGee Agar Law Ltd