Special Guardianship Order
Children Law Services
Understanding Special Guardianship Orders: A Guide
Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) are a vital legal mechanism in the United Kingdom that provide a stable and secure environment for children who cannot live with their birth parents. At United Solicitors, we recognize the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of children, and we are committed to assisting families navigate the complexities of the legal system to ensure the best possible outcomes. In this guide, we will delve into the concept of Special Guardianship Orders, detailing what they entail, who can apply for them, the process involved, and the rights and responsibilities they confer.
What is a Special Guardianship Order (SGO)?
A Special Guardianship Order is a legal arrangement that grants an individual or individuals (known as special guardians) parental responsibility for a child. This order is designed to provide a more permanent and secure alternative to adoption while allowing the child to maintain a connection with their birth family. Special Guardianship Orders are typically sought when it is determined that a child cannot safely remain with their birth parents but would benefit from a stable and nurturing environment with a designated guardian
Who Can Apply for a Special Guardianship Order?
Various parties can apply for a Special Guardianship Order, including:
- Relatives of the child, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings.
- Individuals who have been caring for the child, such as foster carers or family friends.
- Any person who has obtained the consent of the local authority or any other person who holds parental responsibility for the child.
The suitability of the prospective special guardian(s) will be thoroughly assessed by the court to ensure that the child’s best interests are upheld.
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It is advisable to seek legal guidance from experienced solicitors, such as those at United Solicitors, who specialize in family law and can provide expert assistance throughout the process.
The prospective special guardian(s) must submit an application to the court, outlining their reasons for seeking a Special Guardianship Order and providing relevant information about themselves and the child.
The court will conduct thorough assessments to evaluate the suitability of the prospective special guardian(s) and the potential impact of the order on the child. This may involve social workers, independent experts, and other professionals who will provide reports to the court.
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If the court determines that a Special Guardianship Order is appropriate, it will issue the order, outlining the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of the special guardian(s) in relation to the child.
Rights and Responsibilities under a Special Guardianship Order:
A Special Guardianship Order confers several rights and responsibilities upon the special guardian(s), including:
Our Approach:
- Parental Responsibility: The special guardian(s) will have parental responsibility for the child, enabling them to make important decisions about the child's upbringing, welfare, and education.
- Day-to-Day Care: The special guardian(s) will be responsible for the day-to-day care of the child, including providing for their physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
- Contact with Birth Parents: While the Special Guardianship Order grants the Special Guardian(s) parental responsibility, it does not extinguish the parental rights of the birth parents. The court may stipulate arrangements for contact between the child and their birth parents, depending on the circumstances.
- Financial Support: Special Guardian(s) may be entitled to Financial Support from the local authority or other sources to assist with the costs of caring for the child.
- Contact our family law solicitor on 0161 225 8181 to get reliable & confidential legal advice and assistance with a divorce or any other family law matter.
- For detailed advice, please book an appointment with our expert immigration solicitor today.
Conclusion:
Special Guardianship Orders play a crucial role in providing stability and security for children who cannot live with their birth parents. At United Solicitors, our dedicated team of family law specialists is committed to supporting families through the process of obtaining a Special Guardianship Order, ensuring that the best interests of the child are always paramount.
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