If social services are involved with your family – or you’ve been contacted by a social worker about your children – we’re here to help. Our team of solicitors that deal with social services supports parents, carers, and relatives at all stages, from early contact to urgent care proceedings and Special Guardianship Orders (SGO).
We know this can be confusing and frightening. You may be worried about losing your children, being told what to do by professionals, or attending meetings and court hearings without understanding your rights. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Helping families facing social services action
Social services may get involved if they are worried about a child’s safety or well-being. This could include:
- Being asked to attend a PLO meeting (Public Law Outline)
- Your child being placed on a Child in Need or Child Protection Plan
- Pressure to sign a Section 20 agreement to place your child in foster care
- Receiving notice of care proceedings or an Emergency Protection Order
- Your children being removed or placed in foster care
These are serious situations that can move quickly. You may have to go to court with very little notice. In many cases, you will qualify for Legal Aid – especially if you are a parent and care proceedings are starting. Our social services solicitors can explain what’s happening and represent you throughout.
Specialist care proceedings solicitors
If social services are trying to take your child, or already have, we will act fast to protect your rights. Our experienced team of social services solicitors includes members of the Law Society’s Children Panel, and we support:
- Parents whose children are at risk of removal
- Children in care proceedings
- Family members (such as grandparents, aunts, uncles or siblings) and friends who want to care for a child instead of the child going into foster care
- Relatives seeking to challenge a negative viability assessment
- Those involved in adoption, secure accommodation, or contact disputes involving children in care
Special Guardianship Order solicitors
If you’re a family member or foster carer wanting to provide a stable, long-term home for a child, a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) could be the right choice.
An SGO gives you parental responsibility, while still keeping some connection with the child’s birth family. Our Special Guardianship Order solicitors can help you:
- Apply for an SGO, whether or not care proceedings are already happening
- Understand what financial and practical support the local authority might offer
- Prepare a strong application for the court
- Negotiate support plans that meet your needs
These cases can be complicated, especially if court proceedings have started. We’ll explain your options clearly and support you every step of the way.
Solicitors that fight against social services
Many clients tell us they feel ignored or judged when dealing with social services. They may have had a bad experience before or feel like no one is listening to them.
We take a different approach. We treat every case with care, respect and urgency. We don’t offer generic advice – we give you the support you need, when you need it, based on your situation.
Whether you’re looking for solicitors that deal with social services, or solicitors to fight social services, we will stand by you.
Why work with our social services solicitors?
If social services are involved with your family, it can feel scary and confusing. You might worry about losing your children, not knowing your rights, or what will happen next. Our social services solicitors are here to help – quickly, clearly, and without judgment.
Here’s why families across the region trust us to support them through difficult times:
Experts in social services and care law
We specialise in helping parents, carers and family members during child protection cases, care proceedings and meetings with social services. Our team includes solicitors accredited on The Law Society’s Children’s Panel, with over 15 years of experience in children and family law.
Clear advice, explained in plain English
We take the time to listen and explain what everything means – no legal jargon. Whether you’ve been invited to a meeting, asked to sign a Section 20 agreement, or told your child may be taken into care, we’ll talk you through your rights and what to do next.
Legal Aid available
If you’re a parent involved in care proceedings, you may automatically qualify for Legal Aid. We’ll help you find out if you’re eligible and make the process as easy as possible.
Supportive and non-judgmental
We understand this is an emotional and stressful time. Our team listens carefully, treats you with respect, and focuses on finding the best outcome for your family. Many clients come to us through personal recommendations – a sign of the trust and care we offer.
Fast help when you need it most
Social services cases can move quickly. Whether it’s a letter from the local authority, an urgent meeting, or a court hearing tomorrow, we’re ready to act fast. With offices across the region and phone or video appointments available, we’re here when time matters.
Worried about social services? We’re here to help
If you’ve had a letter from social services, been asked to attend a PLO meeting, or you’re worried your child might be taken into care, don’t wait. The sooner you get advice, the more our social services solicitors can do to help. We’ll explain your rights, help you understand what’s happening, and stand by you every step of the way.
Call your nearest office, email us or fill out our contact form above.
