What Should I do if I Have Received Notice of Court Proceedings?
If you receive notice of care proceedings in court for your child, it is essential that you take advice from a legal expert straight away. We know that this can be a very worrying and distressing time. It is important that you have every opportunity to achieve the best outcome for you and your family. Our expert Care Solicitors will help you understand what is happening at each stage of the process.
Why have I Been Issued with Care Proceedings in Court?
The Local Authority may begin court proceedings following pre-proceedings meetings with Social Services under the Public Law Outline or PLO. Sometimes care proceedings are issued urgently and may involve allegations of injury to a child. Care proceedings may involve a child’s parents, but may also involve other carers for a child. Third parties may be invited to intervene in court proceedings if allegations are being made of non-accidental injury or sexual misconduct.
Our team can represent you at short notice and we are able to advise you on your rights and argue how you may be able to safely care for your child.
What are Non-Accidental Injuries?
When an injury to a child has been identified, either with no explanation or with an unacceptable explanation, it is likely that social services will become involved, and the Local Authority will start care proceedings against those with parental responsibility.
These injuries are described as a Non-Accidental Injury (NAI) and the term can be used widely for various types of injuries, often including:
- Shaken baby syndrome
- Broken Bones
- Smothering
- Poisoning
- Bruising
- Infant death
Where a non-accidental injury is suspected, there are many issues that will need to be considered by all parties, and it is important to have experienced legal representation at this point.
Legal Aid Available
Legal Help is provided by the Legal Aid Agency in some circumstances, subject to a means test. We are happy to have an initial discussion with you free of charge to discuss how we may able to help.
Legal Aid is always available for parents of children who are being taken to court by social services”. Find out more about Legal Aid.
Why choose Banner Jones Family Law Solicitors?
Several of our care solicitors are on the Law Society's Children Panel. Only solicitors who meet the Law Society’s exacting accreditation requirements are permitted to join the Children Panel and represent children in public law care proceedings.
Our experts in public law care proceedings can provide you with support and guidance throughout the care proceeding's process. We are specialists in cases involving non-accidental injury and child neglect.
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