Special Guardianship

It is very difficult, frustrating and often quite frightening when social services are involved with matters relating to your children.

However, we are here to offer our honest advice from the outset of proceedings through to the end. Our expert team are very experienced in matters relating to social services and care proceedings, and only have the best interests of you and your children in mind.

At Terrells LLP, we specialise in family and children law, which means we have the knowledge and experience to support you during matters involving special guardianship.

Special Guardianship Solicitors

At Terrells, we offer fixed fee legal advice for foster carers and special guardians. In cases where local authorities initiate care proceedings to protect children at risk of harm, the cost of the special guardianship appointment is covered by the local authority.

This fixed fee includes a one-off session of legal advice where an experienced solicitor at Terrells will cover your rights and responsibilities as a special guardian, the legal process, finances, and any other concerns you wish to address.

We have a wide range of experience in the following cases:

Non-accidental Injury
Sexual abuse

Parents with learning disabilities, mental health problems or drug and alcohol problems.
Domestic abuse

Related Expertise

Care Proceedings FAQs

Who Can Initiate Care Proceedings?

Care proceedings are typically initiated by local authorities, such as social services, but they can also be initiated by other concerned parties, including family members, schools, or healthcare professionals.

Why Are Local Authorities Involved with My Family?

Any authority involved in the welfare of a child, such as social services, schools, family members or healthcare professionals, have a duty of care. In a situation where someone believes that a child may be in significant danger, be it emotionally, physically or at risk of sexual abuse or neglect, they have the right to raise the issue with a local authority.

Do I Need to Sign the Section 20 Agreement?

Local authorities have a duty of care to ensure that any child is safe, and not exposed to the risks of domestic violence, emotional or sexual abuse, or neglect.

If you have been presented with a Section 20 agreement, it means the authorities are concerned about the welfare of your children and have asked you to consent to your children being looked after by someone else during their investigation.

While this may be suitable in some circumstances, it is not a mandatory arrangement, and we would urge you to seek legal advice as soon as you can on the matter.

Reviews From Our Clients

I dealt with a very professional young lady, who presented herself well, was understandable and polite.

What more can anyone ask for?

Mrs E

There were plenty of opportunities to ask questions and we felt we received excellent advice and support.

Mr and Mrs H

I have no hesitation in recommending Terrells to anyone needing any form of legal advice and to thank you once again for all of your help. Long may you continue!