How Long Do Child Care Proceedings Take?

When child care proceedings begin, one of the first questions parents and families ask is: How long will this process take? The family courts aim to resolve these cases as quickly as possible, but sometimes, delays are needed to ensure fairness and the best outcome for the child.

What Does the Law Say About How Long Care Proceedings Take?

Care proceedings should be completed within 26-weeks (6 months) from the date the application is made to the court. This timeframe is there to minimise uncertainty for the children and families involved. It’s also there so that decisions about their future are made as swiftly as possible.

Does This Mean Every Care Case Ends in 26-Weeks?

No, while the court aims to conclude cases within the 26-week timeframe, extensions can be granted in specific circumstances. The court must be sure the case is handled fairly and that all necessary evidence is properly considered before deciding.

If an extension is needed, the court can grant an additional 8 weeks at a time , and there can be multiple extensions if justified. When deciding whether to extend, the court will carefully consider:

• The impact of any delay on the child’s welfare.
• Whether an extension is necessary to ensure a fair hearing.
• The effect of changing the timetable on the overall case progression.

Why Might a Child Care Court Case Take Longer Than 26 Weeks?

While the goal is to resolve cases within six months, certain factors can cause delays, including:

• International elements – If the case involves family members or assessments outside of England and Wales, additional time may be needed to gather relevant information.
• Specialist assessments – If a parent requires a specific type of assessment due to a disability, this may take longer to arrange and complete.
• Parental progress – If a parent is making significant progress in addressing issues such as drug or alcohol misuse, the court may allow additional time to assess their ability to provide safe and stable care.

Why Timeliness Matters in Family Court Proceedings

The law prioritises a 26-week timeframe to prevent prolonged uncertainty for children and families. However, when an extension is granted, it must be clearly justified. The court will always consider the child’s best interests and how delays might affect them.

Understanding the timeline can help parents and caregivers involved in care proceedings manage expectations for the child and prepare for each stage of the process. If your case is taking longer than expected, it’s important to discuss with your legal representative why this is happening and what steps are being taken to move the case forward.

Get Legal Support for Care Proceedings

At Switalskis, we understand how stressful and emotional care proceedings can be. Our expert family and child care team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today on 08001380458 or using the form below for expert advice and assistance if you need legal guidance or have questions about care proceedings.