I received a letter from uncle (in prison) dated 6th April, telling us that his solicitor had informed him that there would be a first hearing for care proceedings on the 20th April, he is being represented by his solicitor. They know that he wishes for us to have his 2 girls in the event of their mother not being allowed them back.
However, I have taken it on myself to start familerising myself with the care proceedings and I have some questions that I hope someone on here will be able to answer.
- In all the information I have read it staes that the inital court hearing must take plae within 6 days of the social services approaching the court. Well, if my uncle know on the 6th April and the case is tomorrow how does that work?
- I have reads that it takes 9-12 months from 1st hearing to final decision.This is to allow the mother time to sort herself out and the courts to gather all the appropriate info on her and the social services to work closely with the mother to try and reconcile the girls back with her. The girls have been in care since 23rd November already. I know that the social services have already tried several avenues with the mother and all have failed. So I dont see where there is to go next with this.
Is it likely that that my uncle was wrong and this isn't a first hearing. Or do the social services have to repeat everything.
We are wanting to get the girls with family around them and am confused that it could be another year before that happens.
Can anyone shed any light on this for me please?
There is more info regarding my case on this board under the title fostering my cousins.
Thanx