If you find yourself caring for a child who is not your own due to circumstances such as parental incapacity or other compelling reasons, a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) can provide the legal recognition, responsibility, and support that you need.

At Monan Gozzett, our dedicated Children's Law team specialises in the complexities of Special Guardianship Orders and is committed to assisting you throughout the entire process.

Contact us today to see how we can help.

You can call 0207 936 6329, email info@monangozzet.com or fill in our form below, and a team member will get back to you shortly.

What Is A Special Guardianship Order?

A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) bestows upon the special guardian the legal authority and responsibility for the child in question.

In most cases, the special guardian's parental responsibility is elevated, allowing them to make critical day-to-day decisions concerning the child, often to the exclusion of others with parental responsibility.

It is important to note that while the parents maintain parental responsibility, their ability to exercise it may be restricted.

The need for a Special Guardianship Order can arise in various scenarios, including informal arrangements or cases involving the intervention of social services.

Regardless of your specific circumstances, if you are currently caring for or planning to care for a child who is not your own, it is crucial to seek specialised legal advice.

How Can Monan Gozzett Help?

Monan Gozzett's experienced family law team can provide comprehensive assistance throughout the process of applying for a Special Guardianship Order.

Our services include:

  • Legal Guidance: Our team of expert solicitors specialises in Special Guardianship Orders and can provide you with personalised legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
  • Application Support: We will assist you in preparing and submitting your application for a Special Guardianship Order, ensuring that all required documentation and information are in order.
  • Court Representation: If your case necessitates court proceedings, our skilled solicitors will represent your interests, advocating on your behalf and ensuring the best possible outcome.
  • Ongoing Support: Beyond the application process, we offer continued support and guidance to address any issues or questions that may arise during the special guardianship period.

By choosing Monan Gozzett as your legal partner, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands, with a team dedicated to securing the best possible future for you and the child under your care.

Contact Monan Gozzett

To begin your journey towards obtaining a Special Guardianship Order, please do not hesitate to contact our family law team.

You can reach us by phone or email, and we will promptly schedule an initial consultation to discuss your specific circumstances and legal needs.

FAQs about Special Guardianship Orders

Who can apply for special guardianship?

Special Guardianship Orders can be applied for by individuals currently caring for a child that is not their own, often due to parental incapacity or other compelling reasons. Our team can provide guidance on your eligibility based on your specific circumstances.

How do you apply for a SGO?

To obtain a Special Guardianship Order (SGO), you must undergo an assessment program led by your local authority's children's services department. This process is designed to determine whether the SGO is indeed in the child's best interests. The local authority will conduct a thorough investigation and prepare a report for the court.

To initiate the application, you can access the necessary forms, such as Form C13A, a supplement for applying for a Special Guardianship Order, via the official government website.

However, it's essential to recognise that the legal framework surrounding SGOs is intricate and multifaceted. Given this complexity, we strongly recommend seeking legal advice to navigate the application process effectively. Legal guidance from a qualified family law solicitor, particularly one experienced in SGO matters, can provide invaluable assistance in ensuring that all the necessary steps are correctly taken to secure the best outcome for you and the child under your care.

How long does a special guardianship last?

Special Guardianship Orders typically last until the child reaches the age of 18. But, the court can vary or discharge them under certain circumstances. Our legal experts can provide detailed information on the duration and possible modifications of SGOs.

If you would like to speak to our expert legal team about this, or any related subject then please contact our team by phone on 0207 936 6329, Email or by completing our Quick Contact Form below.