The Public Law Outline aims to improve work done by local authoritiesbefore family law cases involving social workers reach the courts. Itproposes basing the timetables for cases on the needs of the childinvolved, ensuring all alternatives to care proceedings are exploredfully before hearings and a streamlining of pre-court processes.
The guidance also says parents should be given a statement explainingthe local authority's concerns and given access to legal advice earlierin the process.
Family law minister Bridget Prentice said: "We need to make realimprovements. Delays in care proceedings are rarely in the interests ofthe child."
The outline is being consulted on until September and should come intoeffect in April 2008.
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