Preparing to Attend Court in Public Law cases

This course is aimed at any professionals who may need to attend the family court as part of proceedings following a public law application by a local authority. The course will provide knowledge, skills and confidence in preparing for and attending court proceedings.

By the end of the course those attending will:

• Understand the key principles of the Children Act 1989
• Have had an opportunity to consider the PLO process and requirements
• Have an overview of public law and the range of orders available to a court
• Have knowledge of the function and purpose of courts in children’s proceedings
• Understand the role of Guardian, and have considered court structures, personnel and processes
• Understand what a professional statement should contain and how to compile one
• Have considered what is available as evidence
• Have had an opportunity to consider how to compile an effective care plan (social workers only)
• Understand their role & how to prepare to attend court
• Understand what happens at court including giving evidence and cross examination
• Have had an opportunity to put learning into practice through a simulated court case
• Understand what they need in terms of support when called to give evidence at court