Family Assistance Orders

Family Assistance Orders

What is a Family Assistance Order?

A Family Assistance Order is a short-term order that the Court can grant under section 16 of the Children Act 1989. It directs a CAFCASS officer or the Local Authority (where the child resides) to guide, support and befriend any person who is named in the Order. A clear plan of action will be drafted and attached to the order to ensure all parties are fully aware of the content and what is required of them.

The main aim of the order is to provide families with additional support where required. The order is normally granted at the conclusion of the proceedings involving Section 8 Orders to settle any outstanding disputes between the parties in relation to the child and helps to improve their relationship in the best interest of the child.

The Order is normally made after a Section 7 Report has been filed and the recommendation for the Order has been identified.

Who can be named in the Order?

Anyone with whom the child lives can be named in the order, examples being , the parents, Child`s guardian, anyone that has and order of contact with the child, the children themselves and a Cafcass officer or Local Authority. In order for the order to be effective, the consent of all the parties named, except the child itself is required.

What is the duration of the Order?

The Order is normally made for 12 months or shorter.

How can Duncan Lewis Solicitors help you?

Duncan Lewis Solicitors can advise you in relation to Children Act Proceedings. Duncan Lewis Solicitors have specialist solicitors who represent parents, family members and children within this area of law.  Our solicitors, trainees and caseworkers also speak a range of languages to assist clients where required with any language barriers.

Duncan Lewis is recommended by The Legal 500 legal directory for its specialism in all aspects of family and children law nationwide and cross-border. The Legal 500 applauds our family and child care solicitors to be a team of lawyers that are ‘friendly professionals who take their time to understand your case’. Duncan Lewis team includes Advanced Members of the Law Society’s Family Panel, and members of the Law Society Children.

How will the matter be funded?

Depending on the application, legal aid may be available and you can be assessed for this prior to the matter being taken on. Alternatively, a quote for a fixed fee or the hourly rates of a legal representative may also be provided. You will be advised of the funding arrangements prior to the proceedings commencing.

For expert legal advice on all family and childcare matters, contact Duncan Lewis Solicitors on 033 3772 0409.