The main types of orders which the court may make if there are concerns about a child’s welfare are as follows:
Emergency Protection Order
If the Local Authority is concerned that a child may be at immediate risk of harm they can apply to the court for an Emergency Protection Order (EPO). To obtain such an Order, the Local Authority has to show that there is reasonable cause to believe that the child is likely to suffer significant harm if he/she is not removed to accommodation provided by and on behalf of the Local Authority, or does not remain where he/she is. It may also apply for an EPO on the grounds that enquiries that the Local Authority is trying to make are being frustrated e.g. access to the child is being unreasonably refused. An Emergency Protection Order is a temporary order which lasts for 8 days but it can be extended on one occasion for a further 7 days.
Supervision Order
This order means that a Local Authority must advise, assist and befriend a child. A Supervision Order does not grant the Local Authority parental responsibility. The Local Authority, under a Supervision Order, must offer support and advice to families on how they can address the concerns social services may have about a child.
Care Order
The effect of a Care Order is that the Local Authority shares parental responsibility for a child(ren), and they can then make decisions about the care of the children, whether they are in foster care or in a children’s home. The Local Authority should still continue to consult parents regarding the children’s education, religious upbringing and medical treatment.
We can assist parents or family members who oppose the orders applied for by the Local Authority. Our experienced childcare lawyers are able to offer swift and effective advice to parents involved in these types of proceedings. We endeavour to provide a friendly and approachable service whilst offering a practical approach to ensure the best outcome for our clients. We understand that this is a difficult and traumatic time for parents and family members and that it is important to feel supported by your solicitor. These proceedings can be confusing and overwhelming. Here at Creighton & Partners, we aim to provide clear and concise advice eliminating the legal jargon.
Funding
As a party in care proceedings, you will be automatically entitled to public funding for legal advice and representation in these proceedings.
Our Child Care Solicitors are here to help

Tracy Chester
Managing Director
Tony McGovern
Director
Shrutee Dutt
Solicitor Advocate
Louise Creighton
Consultant
Keshia Bushay-Ellis
Solicitor
Kelly Wild
Solicitor Advocate
Kathryn Cooper
Associate Solicitor
Karlyne Oakes
Graduate Member of CILEx
Jonquil Houghton
Associate Solicitor
Heather Thomas
Solicitor
Hannah Fairhurst
Associate Solicitor
Georgia Gilson
Graduate Member of CILEx
Gemma Neath
Solicitor Advocate
Emma Hall
Director
Emma Davies
Solicitor
Emily Falkus
Trainee Solicitor
Elizabeth Chapman
Solicitor
Douglas Taylor
Director
Deborah Marsden
Director
Dawn Wilson
Director
Dannielle Grinsted
Solicitor
Claudia Gough
Solicitor
Claire Thorpe
Associate Solicitor
Claire Holland
Consultant
Christopher Dobson
Solicitor
Amanda McArdle
Graduate Member of CILEx