Special Guardianship Solicitors Lancaster & Preston
Understanding Special Guardianship
Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) provide a legal route for children to live permanently with someone other than their parents. This arrangement is ideal for situations where children cannot live with their birth parents, but adoption is not suitable. Special Guardianship offers the security of a permanent home while maintaining the child's connection with their birth family.
Why Choose Us?
At BSG Solicitors, we understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in Special Guardianship. Our experienced solicitors are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process with compassion and expertise. We ensure that all legal requirements are met, and the best interests of the child are always prioritised. We have offices in Lancaster and Preston and work with clients across Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Our Services
Initial Consultation and Advice:
Comprehensive explanation of Special Guardianship and its implications.
Assessment of your eligibility and suitability for becoming a special guardian.
Advice on whether you are likely to be successful discharging a Special Guardianship Order
Application Support:
Assistance with completing the Special Guardianship Order application.
Gathering and preparing necessary documentation and evidence.
Court Representation:
Expert legal representation in court proceedings.
Ensuring your voice and the child's best interests are effectively communicated.
Post-Order Support:
Guidance on your rights and responsibilities as a special guardian.
Support with any issues that may arise after the order is granted, including contact arrangements with the birth family.
Local Authority Liaison:
Coordination with social services and local authorities to ensure all statutory assessments and reports are completed accurately and promptly.
Financial and Practical Advice:
Information on financial support and allowances available to special guardians.
Practical advice on managing the transition for the child into your home.
Why Special Guardianship?
Stability and Security: Offers a stable home without severing ties with the birth family.
Parental Responsibility: Special guardians gain legal parental responsibility, providing the authority to make key decisions for the child's welfare.
Support Services: Access to local authority support services, including financial assistance and therapeutic services for the child.
Contact Us
If you are considering Special Guardianship or need assistance with an ongoing case, our dedicated team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards providing a secure and loving home for a child in need.
Call Lancaster 01524 386500 or Preston 01772 253841 to speak to a specialist.
At BSG Solicitors we are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children and families through expert legal support and compassionate service. Let us help you navigate the path to Special Guardianship with confidence and care.
FAQs About Special Guardianship Orders
What is a Special Guardianship Order (SGO)?
A Special Guardianship Order is a legal arrangement that allows a child to live with someone other than their parents on a long-term basis. The special guardian gains parental responsibility, enabling them to make significant decisions about the child's upbringing while preserving the child's connection to their birth family.
Who can apply for a Special Guardianship Order?
Individuals over the age of 18, including relatives, family friends, or foster carers, can apply for a Special Guardianship Order. The applicant must have a close, pre-existing relationship with the child and must demonstrate their ability to provide a stable and secure home.
How does Special Guardianship differ from adoption?
Special Guardianship allows the child to maintain legal ties with their birth parents, whereas adoption permanently severs those ties. Special guardians have parental responsibility but share it with the birth parents, unlike adoptive parents who gain full parental responsibility.
What factors does the court consider when granting an SGO?
The court considers the child's best interests, the ability of the applicant to meet the child's needs, the child's relationship with the applicant, and the wishes and feelings of the child. A thorough assessment by social services is also a critical component of the decision-making process.
What rights and responsibilities do special guardians have?
Special guardians have the authority to make important decisions regarding the child's health, education, and welfare. This includes enrolling the child in school, consenting to medical treatment, and determining the child's religious upbringing. Birth parents retain limited parental responsibility.
Can birth parents challenge a Special Guardianship Order?
Birth parents can apply to the court for permission to challenge an SGO, but they must demonstrate a significant change in circumstances since the order was made. The court will only grant permission if it believes it is in the child's best interests.
What support is available for special guardians?
Special guardians may be eligible for financial support from the local authority, including allowances to help cover the costs of caring for the child. Additional support services such as counselling, training, and respite care may also be available.
How long does a Special Guardianship Order last?
An SGO typically lasts until the child turns 18, unless the court discharges it earlier. The order provides a stable and permanent home for the child during their minority, ensuring continuity and security.
Can a Special Guardianship Order be revoked?
A Special Guardianship Order can be revoked by the court if there is a significant change in circumstances. The court will consider the child's best interests and the current situation before making any changes to the order.
How do I apply for a Special Guardianship Order?
To apply for an SGO, you need to notify your local authority at least three months before submitting your application to the court. The local authority will conduct an assessment and prepare a report for the court. Legal assistance from a solicitor experienced in family law can help guide you through this process.
What should I expect during the SGO assessment process?
The assessment process involves meetings with social workers, home visits, and interviews with the child, the prospective special guardian, and other relevant parties. The aim is to evaluate the suitability of the applicant and ensure the child's needs will be met.
How can BSG Solicitors help with Special Guardianship Orders?
At BSG Solicitors we offer comprehensive legal support throughout the SGO process. From initial consultation and application assistance to court representation and post-order support, our experienced solicitors are dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for you and the child.
