The judgment of Williams J in CS v SBH & Ors [2019] EWHC 634 (Fam) underscored the vital role solicitors play in effectively assessing a child’s legal competence. In 2022, the Family Justice Council issued guidance on this topic, aiming to promote a more consistent approach while recognising that every child is unique and each case must be considered on its own facts. The issue was revisited in C (Child: Ability to Instruct Solicitor) [2023] EWCA Civ 889, in which Jackson LJ provided valuable analysis on the role of judges in meeting with children.
Recent case law has also offered notable examples of judges communicating their decisions directly to children. The publication of Writing to Children – A Toolkit for Judges reflects the growing recognition that children should remain at the heart of family proceedings. We are pleased to once again offer this highly regarded and popular training opportunity, designed for all practitioners who represent children in public and private family law matters.
Topics for discussion will include:
• How to assess competence
• How best to communicate and report a child’s wishes and feelings
• The relationship between the Children’s Guardian and the child’s solicitor when representing children
• Communicating outcomes to children
The session will combine workshops with a panel discussion featuring:
• Jason Solomons, Psychologist
• Amanda Madden and Alex Cole , Children’s Guardian
• Debbie Singleton, Director at NYAS, Children Law Accredited Solicitor
Cost: £40 for ALC members / £60 for non-members.
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend early booking to avoid disappointment.