Active discussions

Meet the Other Phone. Child-safe in minutes.

Meet the Other Phone.
Child-safe in minutes.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Talk
Legal matters

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have any legal concerns we suggest you consult a solicitor.

Original poster

Cafcass guardian

4 replies

Iamvictorio · 14/01/2026 16:48

I wonder if anyone has had experience with teen (14) refusing to engage with cafcass guardian due to past horrific experiences with cafcass - my DD wants to talk through the appointed lawyer or directly to the judge only. Is this possible to happen? Anyone had this experience? Thanks.

OP posts:
Hedgehogforshort · 14/01/2026 19:55

There is some case law on this. Your daughter can instruct her own solicitor and barrister separate from CAFCAS and the lawyer appointed by them. Subject to her Gillian competency.

you should look in to who might be willing to represent her, i think the family or children’s panel

Hedgehogforshort · 14/01/2026 19:58

”Gillick”

Original poster
Iamvictorio · 15/01/2026 08:13

Hedgehogforshort · 14/01/2026 19:55

There is some case law on this. Your daughter can instruct her own solicitor and barrister separate from CAFCAS and the lawyer appointed by them. Subject to her Gillian competency.

you should look in to who might be willing to represent her, i think the family or children’s panel

Thank you! Could the lawyer be the same that was appointed, but just take CAFCASS out of the equation?

OP posts:
Hedgehogforshort · 15/01/2026 09:44

Probably not but she should ask them.

New posts on this thread. Refresh page
Swipe left for the next trending thread