In August we posted the President's recent consultation paper which addresses the proposals for next steps in improving transparency in the Family Court. I understand that any responses ought to be submitted by 3rd October 2014, although it is likely that responses will still be received...
Read MoreHHJ Bellamy's recent judgment in Leicestershire County Council v D concerning the separation of siblings, care and placement orders and an application for an independent social work assessment....
Read MoreThe DfE has produced departmental guidance for social workers dealing with cases which involve a family with links abroad. It is entitled "Working with foreign authorities: child protection orders and care orders". The guidance is a basic outline of general principles, the law and good practice...
Read MoreLeicester practitioners are reminded of the importance of compliance with the local practice guidance issued in September 2013 as to the use of FPR 16.4 Guardians in private law cases. The guidance has been operating well thus far, ensuring that Cafcass are properly consulted before...
Read MoreThe "early bird" discount available for the LLFJB annual conference "The Modern Family: Challenges, Choices and Opportunities" has been extended to 26th September 2014. Don't delay in booking! The booking form can be downloaded here....
Read MoreAlthough Leicester has performed impressively within the last year in reducing the average duration of public law cases, and many cases are now concluding within the statutory 26-week time limit, unfortunately court lists and the availability of final hearing dates is hampering this progress. I have...
Read MoreIt has come to my attention that local practitioners are not correctly seeking, or recording the reasons for, extensions to the 26 week timetable for public law proceedings under s.32 Children Act 1989 (as amended). Permission for extensions must be sought from the court if the...
Read MoreI am pleased that, following consultation, the attached local Practice Direction has been agreed and is to be implemented with immediate effect. This applies to all court and advocates' bundles, which must of course also comply with FPR PD27A....
Read MoreThe programme has now been announced for this year's LLFJB annual conference: "The Modern Family: Challenges, Choices & Opportunities" - 10th October 2014. The keynote speaker is Mr Justice Hayden and there are a number of other plenary speakers and workshops looking at a range of topics...
Read MoreThe Association of Lawyers for Children, in association with Hanson Renouf, is hosting a conference entitled "Children, health and the law" on 3rd October 2014 in Jersey. The programme features a number of eminent speakers and the topics should be of significant interest to anybody practising...
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