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What is a special guardianship order?

Sometimes there is a crisis in the family home, and it is necessary for the children to be looked after by someone else, often a close friend or family member.

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In most cases, this is for a short time; in others, a more permanent solution is needed. At this point, a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) may be considered.

Applying for an SGO is a big decision, and it’s important to get the right information and support before deciding to apply.

Our experienced child law solicitors offer clear, sound legal advice on SGOs and can talk you through the considerations you need to make before deciding if this is the correct order for you and the child.

We will help you to obtain a Special Guardianship assessment, draft the application to the court and attend the court hearings that follow.

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Key Special Guardianship Order Information

Who can apply for a special guardianship order?

If you have a familial connection to the child, by blood or marriage, an agreement with the deceased parents of a child, or a child arrangements order – you may be able to apply for a special guardianship order. This may require the child to have lived with you for at least 1-3 years. For more information on how to deal with your specific case, contact Stowe Family Law today.

How long does special guardianship order take?

After contacting a Stowe Family Law lawyer, you will need to write to the children’s services 3 months before you wish to apply at the court for an SGO. From there, there will be assessment from a social worker and the process may include other steps. The overall length of the process depends on the complexity of your case.

Why seek legal advice for special guardianship orders?

Special guardianship orders legally change the long-term carer of a child. This can be complex, particularly if there are issues associated with familial breakdown. An expert family lawyer will ensure you are prepared for the process and that all applications and hearings are approached correctly.

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How to apply for a special guardianship order?

You will need to go through an assessment programme by your local authority’s children’s services department to ensure that an SGO is in the child’s best interests. They will investigate and prepare a report for the court.

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You can make an application for an order here and a supporting statement on the Government website.

However, the laws surrounding SGOs are complex, and we strongly recommend that you seek legal advice

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Special guardianship orders are crucial for providing stable care arrangements outside of traditional parenting. Our team excels in navigating the legal intricacies, ensuring secure and supportive environments for children under these unique circumstances.

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Congratulations to Helen Miller who maintains Band 3 ranking. Helen Miller is the managing partner at Stowe Family Law for Altrincham, Liverpool and Crewe. She assists clients with financial remedy cases and private law children matters, including abduction cases.

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I had to change my solicitors, that's why I met Kate Bouwmeester at Stowe Family Law. I wish I had her as my solicitor from the very beginning. My financial matter was handled by Kate. Also, she gave me advice on children matters. Kate understood what my expectations were and honestly handled the matter cost-effectively. Kate had been brilliant whe… Read moren it came to clarity and details. She was quick with responses. I would highly recommend Kate Bouwmeester if you are looking for a solicitor for your marital conflict. Unlike some other solicitors, Kate Bouwmeester is able to advise on all matters - divorce, finances and children. I believe that these three matters are linked to one another and having one solicitor, rather than two, for all these matters is more efficient and cheaper. Thank you Kate for helping me

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The team you manage have been fantastic with my cases. I moved solicitors and I was very nervous at whether I had done the right thing as it was a big decision. But after meeting Jake and how he listened to me and his no nonsenses attitude which I needed, I felt a lot more at ease. And his quick turnaround to take my cases on to putting a CAO in pl… Read moreace last Friday that Ella sorted out for me and kept me in the loop all the way until it was filled with the court. And today Michelle for jumping straight on things while Jake was on leave and getting Ella to deal with the issue where I found my wife was trying to sell sentimental items on Facebook marketplace. Ella quickly responded and dealt with the situation in my opinion perfectly, and the items have been taken down by her now, again she kept me in the loop every step of the way which I really need at the minute. You have an amazing team and I feel very well looked after and I now believe I will get what I and my girls need through all this I know it will take some time, but I have faith in your team you have and trust them.

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