Adoption Orders
The effect of an adoption order is that the child becomes a child of the person(s) who applied for the order and ends the parental responsibility of their birth parents. In the case of a “step-parent” adoption, only the rights of the child’s “other” birth parent are extinguished. Adoption is a lengthy process and can be complex. We would be happy to advise you on your individual circumstances.
Special Guardianship Orders
Special Guardianship is intended to provide another option for permanence for a child who cannot grow up in their birth parents’ care. A Special Guardianship order gives the Special Guardian parental responsibility for the child which will usually last until the child is 18. Unlike Adoption orders, these orders do not remove parental responsibility from the child’s birth parents, but allow the Special Guardian to override the parents if needed to protect the child or promote their best interests. If you are considering Special Guardianship, we recommend you make an appointment with us to obtain advice on your specific circumstances.
If you would like to speak with one of our team, we offer free initial advice appointments. For more information, please telephone 01380 733300 or 01225 896100. If you think you might qualify for Legal Aid we can help – please let us know when you telephone.