Ten top tips for going to court

The Ten Top Tips series considers some of the fundamental themes in child care practice in concise, practical guides ideal for busy practitioners.

Preparing and presenting cases to court is often a key part of the social workers role, but can be a daunting prospect, especially for new practitioners. Knowing how best to prepare, how to work with lawyers, how to behave in court and how to help the court make the right decision for the child will have far-reaching consequences. So what can social workers do to increase their confidence in this environment and ensure that their day in court has a positive outcome?

This book looks at some steps that workers can take to get the most out of going to court – before, during and after the actual hearing. The guide focuses on the court processes of England and Wales, although basic court skills will also be common to Northern Ireland.

Who is this book for?

This guide will provide valuable information for all practitioners who have to go to court or have contact with legal departments.

What you will find in this book

Each of the ten chapters presents a basic “tip” in an accessible and straightforward style, including:

• Only going to court if absolutely necessary
• Getting the paperwork right
• Preparing well for court
• Understanding how a court works
• Considering all the options for children
• Understanding what a lawyer can and cannot do
• Working with the Children’s Guardian
• Learning how to perform well in court
• Being aware of what to do immediately after the court hearing
• Knowing what actions to take after court

Author

Alexandra Conroy Harris is the Legal Consultant for CoramBAAF.