Social Services

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What happens in care proceedings?

If the local authorities (social services) become concerned about the welfare of your child, they may ask you attend a Meeting Before Action. If you receive a letter from social services advising you that you need to attend such a meeting, you should access legal representation immediately.

Dependent on the circumstances, social services may decide to bring a court case. This generally includes applying for an interim care order, where a child can be taken into care on a temporary basis for up to eight weeks. This may only be made if the court is of the view that the child is at risk of harm. This process can be lengthy, so we work to prepare you for all outcomes.

At Brighton & Hove Law, we can offer expert, non-judgmental advice in what is undoubtably a stressful and highly complex situation. It is highly important that you have a specialist to help you through the process, reduce the stress of the situation and ensure the best possible outcome for your family. We are highly experienced in representing clients in cases concerning social services, so can assist you through this process with care and sensitivity. Please contact us if you have any questions, as this can be complex and we will be able to clarify the proceedings for you.

When can the local authorities make an application to take children into care?

This will be if there is concern for the welfare of your child. The circumstances that may trigger such an application will generally include concerns about neglect, or concerns that the child is being abused. We can guide you through the process of what social services are concerned about, and explain what may constitute neglect or abuse.

Do I qualify for legal aid?

If you have been asked to attend a Meeting Before Action with social services, you will qualify for legal aid automatically. Equally, if you have children who are the subject of care proceedings issued at court, you will also qualify for legal aid. If you are the grandparent or other family member, you may qualify for legal aid. For more information on legal aid, see our website or contact us to discuss your options.

What may be the outcome of care proceedings?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, and what the court finds, there are a number of potential outcomes that you may witness at the conclusion of care proceedings. This can range from the child being sent home with the parent if the risk is reduced, to the child living in a children’s home or being fostered or adopted. Please contact us if you are involved with social services so we can assist you through the process, or if you have any questions.

Client Testimonials

Lucy provided services as my solicitor long-distance. I was residing in the US while my case was ongoing in the UK court. I had the pleasure of meeting her face-to-face for an initial consultation before my return to the US and she was very professional in all correspondence until matters came to a conclusion.

She was always very happy to answer questions thoroughly and schedule long-distance phone calls when I requested them. She has a very kind and professional nature. Needless to say, she made what could have been an exhausting process extremely painless. I highly recommend her.

Ms S 

I had a protracted and complicated divorce and I could not have wished for a better solicitor. The divorce process and all the associated financial negotiations are complex and come at a time when you are emotionally fraught, stressed and at a low ebb. Having a solicitor who is fair, firm and practical and clearly explained the options at every stage makes such a huge difference.

Lucy enabled me to balance getting the fairest settlement with retaining a workable relationship with my ex. There were no surprise, superfluous bills or actions taken that I wasn’t 100% comfortable with, which is so important.

She was available to chat on the phone and I far preferred dealing with one solicitor, who personally knew my case, rather than going via a larger firm where you do not receive such a focused, expedited approach.

I would 100% recommend Lucy to my closest friends and family.

Ms S – Hove

It is always a pleasure to receive a brief from Jennifer Lynch and Lucy Gregory. They are detailed and helpful which greatly assists in the through prep of a case. Their robust approach and collaborative working is reassuring for clients and energising to work with.

Sarah Dummett and Ellie Chapman provide a first class, client focused service. Their advice and approach is accessible while robust.

Ayisha Robertson, Barrister

Sarah has been unfailingly professional and client focused throughout. Her enthusiasm and commitment to always providing the best legal advice and assistance to clients is unparalleled. I would have no hesitation in referring a friend or family to Sarah in the event of them having a family law issue.

Michael Valks, Barrister

Lucy is a robust, calm and thoughtful solicitor with an amazing eye for detail and sound judgement. She is a strategic thinker who is excellent with clients, approachable, empathetic and gives clear advice that is always focused on a pragmatic outcome. She goes above and beyond to assist clients and is top-tier.

Ben Earle, Barrister

If I could give an abundance of stars to rate Brighton and Hove Law I would. They have given an excellent service all round.
The care and personal attention given has been amazing. The support and understanding has been unmeasurable.

Confidential

Thanks very much for all your sterling help through what has been a horrible time.

Mrs M  –  Brighton 

Samantha Barker at Brighton and Hove Law conducts her cases with competent vigour which undoubtedly makes the role of our barristers seamless. 

Steve Lavell, Director of Clerking

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