Contemporary Family Justice: Policy and Practice in Complex Child Protection Decisions

Demonstrating how the law and statutory guidance applies in practice, this book is a critical account of current family justice policy and practice.

It draws on recent legislation, case law and research findings to provide clear, accessible information and advice on how to make the difficult decisions in pre-proceedings child care practice work. With reference to child protection legislation and practice frameworks, this book highlights the importance of undertaking informed and effective assessments based on the best outcome for the child. The book acknowledges the constraints facing practitioners, such as working under considerable pressure within tight time frames and focuses on the issues which commonly present as challenges for practice, such as neglect, child sexual exploitation and pre-birth assessments.

This is essential reading for students and practitioners in social work and law, as well as policy-makers and other professionals concerned with the current state of child welfare.

1. Introduction: The origin of remote control practice. 2. The remote control approach in the family courts: a dickensian misadventure? 3. Mediation: the holy grail of reforms to working with complex families. 4. Why parents matter: exploring the impact of instrumental approaches to resolving complex situations. 5. Decision making and planning for children: the need for a holistic assessment of the family and an understanding of permanency planning. 6. Challenges for practice: dealing with complex issues that increase risk for children within a family justice system. 7. Findings from research: pre-proceedings practice. 8. Conclusion: What has happened since the Family Justice Review: a brighter future for children and their families?