Social Services & Child Care Proceedings
Social Services & Child Care Solicitor Liverpool, Halton & Cheshire: Navigating care proceedings is a stressful and complex process and can seem very overwhelming. While it may seem like an extreme intervention by the state, Local Authorities have a duty to children if they have concerns that the child is at risk. The local authority should only make a formal care application where there is a significant risk of harm or a likelihood of harm to the child.
When this happens it is extremely stressful for the family involved and they need to seek immediate legal advice. We understand that the welfare of the child is the priority and our team has extensive experience of dealing with these matters in a sensitive and compassionate way. Our aim is if at all possible to avoid the instigation of proceedings and we will provide you with advice and support every step of the way.
We have offices in Liverpool, Halton and Cheshire and are well placed to offer assistance across the north west.
SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FAMILY SPECIALISTS
If you need any further assistance please call:
Merseyside: 0151 480 5777
Runcorn: 01928 711119
Widnes: 0151 423 3661
Why choose JR levins?
Sometimes in these cases the local authority arrange a Child Protection Case Conference which will allow the local authority to see if a child can be protected without a Care Order being made.
If the local authority deem it necessary pre proceedings will be commenced. All parents are entitled to legal aid if this occurs. We hold a government legal aid contract which means that we can assist you under the scheme.
Social Services & Child Care Solicitor Liverpool: Our team, led by Jannine Jenkins, deals with these matters on a regular basis and has a proven track record. We regularly deal with local authorities from Knowsley, St Helens, Halton, Cheshire and Liverpool. We are based in Liverpool, Halton and Cheshire and you are welcome to make an appointment to come and speak to a member of the team.
Get in touch if you have been contacted by social services and we will provide you with clear and honest advice about your situation.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Social Services & Child Care Solicitor Liverpool: CHECK OUT OUR Children matters FAQS BELOW.
What is a care order?
What is a care order?
In simple terms, if a local authority is granted a care order then the local authority acquires parental responsibility and becomes the third parent (in addition to the mother and the father).
Can I get legal aid / How much will it cost me?
Can I get legal aid / How much will it cost me?
Where the Local Authority issue care proceedings you are automatically entitled to Legal Aid.
Who are CAFCASS and how are they involved in my case?
Who are CAFCASS and how are they involved in my case?
CAFCASS stands for Children and Family Court Advisory Support Services. CAFCASS look after the interests of children involved in family court proceedings. The main types of cases in which the court ask CAFCASS to help are where parents and carers are separating or divorcing and have not reached agreement about arrangements for the children, where social services have become involved and children may be removed from their parents’ care for their safety, and where children could be adopted. We can tell you whether CAFCASS will be involved in your case and the implications for your family.
What is the role of the children’s guardian?
What is the role of the children’s guardian?
In care proceedings, the court will usually appoint a guardian for the child concerned. The guardian will be an independent professional and will advise the court on the child’s best interests.