My child has been removed from my care, what happens now?
Our Director and Head of Childcare Law, Jonathan Woodhouse, answers the question
Our Director and Head of Childcare Law, Jonathan Woodhouse, answers the question
Having a child removed from your care is one of the most distressing situations a parent can face. If this has happened to you, it is important to understand how the process works and what your rights are.
A child can only be removed from your care in one of two ways: either with your agreement, following discussions with a social worker, or by way of a court order. If you have not agreed to your child being removed, the local authority cannot simply take your child and leave matters there. They would be required to issue care proceedings and take the matter before a court, where a judge would consider the evidence and make a decision about your child's welfare.
It is important to understand that care proceedings are a formal legal process, and you have the right to be represented and to have your voice heard throughout. The court will carefully consider all of the circumstances before making any decisions about your child's future care.
If your child has been removed or you are concerned that removal may be imminent, our strong advice is to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Time can be critical in these situations, and having the right legal support in place from the outset can make a significant difference to the outcome for you and your family.
Our childcare law team is experienced in supporting parents through care proceedings and can provide the clear, compassionate guidance you need to help resolve the situation. Please do not hesitate to contact us.
