Special Guardianship Orders
Fahrenheit Law: Family Solicitors for Special Guardianship Orders
If you are a close family member, such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle, wishing to take over parental responsibility for a child, you may want to consider applying for a Special Guardianship Order (SGO). This order allows you to make parental decisions for the child while maintaining a duty to consult with any other adults who hold parental responsibility, such as the parents. Whether you are independently seeking guardianship or have been assessed as a potential special guardian within care proceedings by a local authority, it is crucial to obtain independent legal advice.
If you are already caring for the child, the team of family solicitors at Fahrenheit Law can provide you with the specialist advice needed to navigate the often complex process involved in obtaining a Special Guardianship Order.
Purpose of Special Guardianship Orders
Special guardianship status is designed for close family members or friends who take on the permanent care of a child within the family. SGOs were introduced to bridge the gap between Child Arrangement Orders (CAOs) and adoption, offering a permanent solution until the child reaches the age of 18.
An SGO grants you legal recognition and responsibility, ensuring you can make decisions for the child and potentially receive the necessary practical and financial support. While the parents retain their parental responsibility and maintain a relationship with the child through contact arrangements, the Special Guardian assumes primary responsibility for the child’s day-to-day care and overall well-being.
Why Choose Fahrenheit Law?
When dealing with Special Guardianship Orders, several considerations must be addressed. Beyond the basic requirement that the prospective guardian be over the age of 18 (including existing guardians, foster carers, or someone who has lived with the child), there are significant practical and financial implications.
The process of obtaining an SGO can be legally complex, so consulting with an experienced family solicitor with a proven track record is advisable. You must give three months’ written notice to the local authority of your intention to apply for an SGO, and we recommend consulting with our team before filing the application.
Once the court receives the SGO application, your suitability as a guardian will be assessed, typically involving the local authority preparing a report and support plan. Taking on parental responsibility for a child who is not your own can be stressful and confusing, but our empathetic team is here to help.
Get Expert Guidance
Speak to a member of our legal team for dedicated, up-to-date guidance on Special Guardianship Orders. With new guidance issued in June 2020, it is essential to have the latest information on best practices in this area.
Contact Fahrenheit Law to ensure you have the support and expertise needed to navigate the process of obtaining a Special Guardianship Order effectively.
