News release

TAYLOR&EMMET URGES EARLY ACTION IN CHILD CASES

Sheffield solicitors, Taylor&Emmet LLP, is stressing how important it is for local families to seek specialist legal advice at the first signs of social services intervention.

In light of a recent report into the city organisation, Deborah Thompson, head of Taylor&Emmet’s childcare team, is urging families involved with social services to contact a solicitor at the earliest opportunity.

Deborah said: “A recent investigation into the city’s social services highlighted a lack of resources and high workloads, both of which could mean clients are not accessing the support they need and that matters are not progressing as quickly as they, or indeed the social workers, would wish. In both cases, early involvement from solicitors specialising in childcare can help to resolve the situation.”

Taylor&Emmet’s childcare experts assist families who find themselves involved with social services for a variety of reasons, including issues surrounding disability and concerns about a violent partner or parent, as well as investigations into harm or neglect.

In most cases Taylor&Emmet’s help is free, thanks to its continuing commitment to legal aid. The firm can assist in a number of ways, from simply writing to a client confirming the advice they have received or writing to social services on their behalf, to directly addressing the source of the problem (for example, obtaining an injunction for protection) and representation in court.

Deborah added: “All too often, clients do not contact us until care proceedings have already been issued. If they see us earlier, we can support them in their contact with social workers, explain the agency’s role and what might happen if they don’t work with social services. We can also detail the legal options available to families, depending on their particular situation and help achieve the best outcome for all concerned, which may even include avoiding court proceedings altogether.”

For further information about Taylor&Emmet’s childcare services, telephone (0114) 218 4000 or visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk

Issued: 15.6.2009

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