In situations where children are unable to remain with their parents, kinship carers—family members or close friends who step in to care for the child—can play a crucial role in providing stability and support. At Makin Dixon, we understand the importance of keeping children within their family network whenever possible. We offer expert legal support and if applicable legal aid to kinship carers navigating the complexities of care proceedings, ensuring that your rights are protected and that the child’s best interests are upheld.
How We Can Help
Our team of experienced family law solicitors can guide kinship carers through every stage of care proceedings, ensuring that the process is as smooth as possible and that the child’s welfare remains the top priority. Our services include:
Legal Support for Kinship Care: We provide legal guidance to family members who are seeking to become kinship carers, ensuring they understand their rights and responsibilities throughout the process.
Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs): If you are a family member who wishes to care for the child long-term, we can help you apply for a Special Guardianship Order (SGO), which gives you parental responsibility while keeping the child’s relationship with their birth parents intact.
Adoption Support: If you are considering adopting a child in your care, we can assist you with the legal steps and support you in ensuring the child’s future security and wellbeing.
Representation in Court: We offer expert representation for kinship carers in care proceedings, advocating for your rights and the child’s best interests in court. We will help you present a strong case to ensure that the child remains in a stable, loving environment.
Legal Aid Services: We recognise that care proceedings can be financially stressful. Our team can help you explore legal aid options, ensuring that the financial burden of legal costs does not prevent you from securing the best possible outcome for the child in your care.
Why Choose Us?
- Experienced in Kinship Care Law: Our solicitors have extensive experience in handling care proceedings and supporting kinship carers, ensuring that you receive clear, expert advice throughout the process.
- Child-Centred Focus: We always place the child’s welfare at the forefront, helping to create long-term solutions that provide the stability and care they need.
- Support for Family Members: We understand the emotional and practical challenges faced by kinship carers. Our team is here to offer compassionate, tailored support, helping you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Access to Legal Aid: We offer legal aid to eligible kinship carers, ensuring that you can receive expert legal support without the worry of financial strain.
Get in Touch
If you are a kinship carer involved in care proceedings or seeking to secure long-term care for a child in your family, we are here to help. Our experienced team is committed to ensuring that you and the child receive the legal support you need.
Call 0330 3031 999 or fill out our online form, and we will get back to you promptly.