Advice on adoption, step-parent adoption and special guardianship orders. From our North Shields office for families across Newcastle and the North East. Book a free 30-minute consultation.
Adoption and Special Guardianship Orders provide children with long-term stability and security.
Our family law solicitors guide clients through every stage of the legal process, offering practical advice and compassionate support.
We assist with adoption applications, step-parent adoptions, kinship care arrangements and Special Guardianship Orders. Whether you are seeking to formalise an existing parental role or provide a permanent home for a child, we are committed to helping you achieve a positive outcome for your family.
We advise on:
If social services are involved with a child in your family, our Children Law accredited solicitors can represent you in care proceedings.
If you are a parent or grandparent seeking time with a child, we can help you reach an arrangement or apply to court.
What is a Special Guardianship Order?
A Special Guardianship Order appoints someone, often a grandparent or other relative, as a child's special guardian until they turn 18. The special guardian can make most day-to-day decisions about the child's upbringing.
What is the difference between adoption and special guardianship?
Adoption permanently ends the legal relationship between a child and their birth parents. A Special Guardianship Order does not: the birth parents remain the child's legal parents, but the special guardian has overriding parental responsibility.
Can a step-parent adopt a child?
Yes. A step-parent can apply to adopt their partner's child. The consent of the other birth parent with parental responsibility is usually needed, unless the court decides it can be dispensed with.
Is legal aid available?
Legal aid may be available in some adoption and special guardianship cases, particularly where the local authority is involved. We will check whether you qualify at your free consultation.
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