Here at Robinson Allfree, we understand our clients. We know that the last thing people want is for social services to get involved with your children. If you need expert legal representation when dealing with social services, Robinson Allfree might just be the solution for you.
Did you know?
In the event that social services become concerned regarding your children, social services can now:
- Call you to a pre-procedure meeting with a legal professional
- Set up a child security meeting should they feel a child is unsafe
- File a court application against you
Parents who are participating in care proceedings or childcare pre-proceedings are eligible for free legal assistance that is not means-tested or merit-based.
When social services have such strong concerns that they are considering starting legal actions, pre-procedure consultations are held. Although they can be challenging, they give parents the opportunity to attempt and come up with an approach to work alongside social services in order to prevent the need for court hearings.
What Court applications can Social Services bring?
Social services can bring the following applications before court against you:
- Emergency Protection Orders
- Care Orders/Interim Care Orders
Social Services will then ask the court for orders if officials believe your child could be in danger of serious damage. If indeed the children are in danger, the court will examine their intentions to determine if they are in the better interests of the children. Such arrangements can involve placing a child into foster homes or with a different member of the family.
Whilst the case is pending, assessments are conducted to learn more about the children and their parents. The court expects to wrap up these procedures in roughly 26 weeks (which is around 6 months). To assist it in determining what solution is in the best interests of the child, the Court will appoint a career or guardian who is not connected to social services.
From here, the local authorities will be required to make any necessary arrangements if the children in care are to be seen by the parents unless the court has otherwise authorised against this.
Get the expert legal representation you deserve
Due to her experience in cases affecting children, Gemma Duckworth is an ideal legal representation who also holds membership within the Law Society Children Committee. She has almost two decades of experience representing parents and children in issues involving children.
It is crucial to have experienced legal counsel to assist you throughout the process, representing you in court, as well as assist you in thinking of any actions you may do to strengthen your case.
Find Solicitors based in Kent
If you find that you have been contacted or approached by social services and require expert legal representation, then you should contact Robinson Allfree.
We can assist with all aspects of court dealings and handling social services. We’re on your side.
