Child Court Proceedings

When social services are involved, the process usually follows these steps:

1. Initial Assessment: Social workers assess the child’s situation to identify any welfare concerns.
2. Child in Need or Child Protection Plan: If concerns are identified, the child may be made the subject of one of these plans, with support offered to improve their welfare.
3. Public Law Outline (PLO) Process: If concerns remain unresolved or escalate, the local authority may initiate the PLO process to consider court proceedings. At this stage, we can help and you will get legal aid regardless of your financial circumstances.
4. Court Proceedings: If necessary, the local authority can apply to the Court for orders, such as a care order, supervision order, or emergency protection order.
   Throughout this process, you should seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected. You will be eligible for legal aid regardless of your financial circumstances.

What is a Public Law Outline (PLO)?

The Public Law Outline (PLO) is a process used in cases where social services have concerns about the welfare of a child. It sets out the steps the local authority should follow before applying to the Court to take a child into care. The aim is to work with families to address issues and avoid Court proceedings if possible. Parents or those caring for children will be invited to a PLO meeting, where they can discuss concerns, agree on steps to improve the situation and have the support of legal representation.

What do I do if I get a child proceedings letter through?

If you receive a letter saying, “Letter Before Proceedings”, it is important to act quickly. The letter often includes information about a time and date for a meeting, and it will outline the concerns social services have about your child. You should:

1. Read the letter carefully to understand the concerns.
2. Seek immediate legal advice and provide a solicitor with the letter so urgent advice can be given to you ahead of the meeting. You will be eligible for free legal advice if you have received this letter.
3. Attend the meeting with your solicitor to discuss the concerns of the local authority and any steps you can take to address them and what support the local authority should be offering you. Your solicitor can address any inaccuracies and ensure that the process is being conducted fairly by the local authority.
   Failing to respond or engage may escalate the situation and result in court proceedings.

If you have any questions regarding child care proceedings, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our Family Team by calling 0800 652 8373, emailing enquiries@battens.co.uk, or by filling out an enquiry form.

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