In some instances, the local authority’s concerns may be enough for them to start care proceedings. This may involve them seeking the removal of your children into foster care or placing them into the care of another family member during these proceedings.
You may be asked to sign a section 20 agreement for your children to go into foster care. We can advise you whether this is appropriate depending on your circumstances. During care proceedings, we will arrange representation for you at all court hearings and will advise you as to any assessments that social services may undertake and ensure appropriate contact arrangements are in place.
Legal aid is available to enable you to be represented free of charge if you are a parent in proceedings or have an order that says a child lives with you who is the subject of the application.
Legal aid may be available for other parties joined into care proceedings but will be assessed on a means and merits basis and is not always available.