Understanding Care Proceedings: A Guide For Parents (25 July 2025)

• Published date: 31 July 2025
• Subject Matter: Family and Matrimonial, Family Law
• Law Firm: Duncan Lewis & Co Solicitors
• Author: Jane Wilson

When concerns arise about a child's safety or welfare, the local authority has a legal duty to act. In some cases, this leads to care proceedings, a formal legal process initiated in the Family Court. These proceedings can feel overwhelming for families, especially when they're unfamiliar with what to expect.

What are Care Proceedings?

Care proceedings are legal proceedings brought by the local authority (children's services) when the threshold in respect of a child has been met. This threshold is met when the local authority consider that a child has suffered, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm. Through these proceedings, the local authority may apply for a care order or a supervision order, which gives them certain responsibilities and powers concerning the child's care.

The court should conclude care proceedings and make final decisions for a child within 26 weeks, unless there are exceptional reasons to extend this timeframe.

The Pre-Proceedings Process

Before applying to the court, the local authority may initiate a pre-proceedings process. This is a formal step that gives parents a final opportunity to address concerns and avoid court action.

As part of this process...