Support when social services get involved

If you have received a letter from the Local Authority (Social Services/Children’s Social Care) about concerns for your child, it can feel overwhelming. You may have been invited to a Public Law Outline (PLO) meeting or told that court proceedings are being considered.

This is a crucial moment and you do not have to face it alone.

Our specialist childcare solicitors are here to support you from the very start. We will attend meetings with you, explain what’s happening, and help you work with Social Services to find the best outcome for your child.

What should you do first

If you have received a letter from Social Services:

Call our Childcare Team immediately - 0808 196 8200
We will help you prepare for the PLO meeting
We will attend meetings with the social worker and their legal team
We will work to avoid court proceedings where possible

If court proceedings do begin, we will represent you at every stage and make sure your voice is heard.

What if your child has been harmed or injured?

If Social Services are investigating an injury or harm to your child, and you have been told you or someone else may be responsible, it’s vital to get legal advice straight away.

Even if you are still in hospital with your child, we can:

Help with discharge planning
Begin building your legal case immediately
Assemble a team of experienced lawyers and, if needed, a senior barrister (King’s Counsel)
Explore expert assessments that may support your case

The earlier we are involved, the more we can do to help.

What will the court consider?

The court’s primary concern is always your child’s welfare. It will consider:

Your child’s wishes and feelings (based on age and understanding)
Their physical, emotional, and educational needs
The likely impact of any changes to their home or care
Their age, background, and any relevant characteristics
Any past or potential harm
How well you (or others) can meet their needs

Remember: Social workers don’t make final decisions - only a judge can do that. We will guide you through the process and help protect your child’s long-term interests.

What Orders might be made?

Care Order
The Local Authority shares parental responsibility with you. They may decide who cares for your child - this could be a foster carer or a family member. You will still be involved in key decisions.
Supervision Order
Your child may stay with you, but Social Services will monitor and support your care.

How we can help

Our experienced childcare solicitors represent:

Parents

Children

Children's Guardians

Grandparents

We will help you understand your rights, support you through the legal process, and work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your child.

I met with Charlotte through an application of special guardianship for my grandson. Instantly I was made to feel supported, amazing communication from her throughout the whole process, today we won and I am forever thankful to Charlotte and the team for the support and dedication they provided to me and my family. Reception staff always helpful when trying to communicate with Charlotte, the whole service was flawless, supportive and I would highly recommend this service. Excellent team and excellent support.

Mrs B

I would thoroughly recommend Porter Dodson to anyone needing to find a solicitor who they could trust to act to a high standard for them. I received a friendly, welcoming smile from the receptionists as soon as I entered the offices. Julia handled my divorce proceedings very professionally, with care, concern and understanding. I have a very high regard for her, I know I could never have had a better solicitor acting for me. Julia's assistants are also very professional, helpful and friendly. As Marks and Spencer say ‘There's food, and there's M&S food’ well I can honestly say ‘There's solicitors, and there's Porter Dodson solicitors.’ Top quality professionalism throughout from the solicitors, their assistants and the receptionists. I cannot thank them enough.

Family Client

Isobel represented me through a complex two-year family law case. From the start, her legal expertise and focus on my children’s welfare were clear. As proceedings grew complicated, she remained calm, strategic, and remarkably efficient. Isobel offered honest, fair advice and built a true partnership based on trust. After an exceptionally long and difficult process, we achieved everything we set out to accomplish. I am enormously grateful for her resilience and guidance, and recommend her without hesitation.

Family Client

We used Porter Dodson in Bridport for a Declaration of Trust. Karen Watts was both kind and professional throughout. She explained everything to us very clearly, and having her to guide us through the process made it straightforward and reassuring. All the team are so courteous and helpful, we will always use and recommend them. Sincere thanks again.

Maureen