It’s hoped that adoption marks the start of a new future for both the adoptive family and adopted child. Expectations are high on both sides, and in many cases it’s a long hoped-for arrangement. In some cases however, for any number of reasons, this may not be the case.
The breakdown of adoption is something that is seldom discussed. It’s an experience that few parents wish to share, partly for fear of being blamed, however research by Adoption UK suggests that around a third of adoptions encounter severe and ongoing issues.
A number of factors can lead to the breakdown of an adoptive arrangement. In many cases, adopted children have had a difficult start to life, and will sometimes have spent many years in care, following removal from a dysfunctional or even abusive situation. Pre-existing trauma can put unbearable stress on the new family unit, and in some cases, this can lead to the breakdown of the adoption.
Next Steps
It’s important to understand that adoptive placements sometimes break down despite the very best efforts of the adoptive parents. In this case, it’s vital to understand the next steps to ensure minimal disruption and suffering for all involved. Our team includes experts on adoption breakdown, who can help you understand the options available to you.
The next steps may involve seeking support (such as therapy and respite care) or request for the child to be accommodated by the local authority. Sometimes the situation will progress to the Local Authority issuing care proceedings. If the situation develops to this point, we can provide legal representation to parents.
Our adoption law team can help with
Helping you understand what comes next
Support from the local authorities
Therapy and respite care
Request for re-accommodation if necessary
Legal representation at care proceedings
How much will it cost?
At JWP Solicitors we always have a transparent approach to our fees. Our solicitors will always at the outset of your case set out clearly the likely costs.
An initial consultation is charged at £99 plus VAT. This fee covers your first appointment only and must be paid in advance of the meeting.
Following the initial consultation, any further work will be charged at the rate of £95 plus VAT per hour. We will discuss likely costs with you before carrying out additional work, and funds may need to be placed on account before further work can proceed.
In some circumstances, Legal Aid funding may be available, particularly where there is an upcoming PLO meeting or court hearing. We can advise you about eligibility during your initial enquiry.
You can contact us at any time free of charge during the course of, or at the conclusion of your case, with any queries in relation to costs or any other area of client care.
