The legal definition of parental responsibility is “all the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authorities which by law a parent of a child has in relation to the child and the child’s property”. This means that parents are...
An emergency protection order (EPO) is an order issued with the aim of protecting a child from ongoing or imminent risk of physical, mental or emotional harm where emergency action is needed. Subject to certain exceptions, it can be made for a maximum period of eight days.
Anyone can apply to the court for an emergency protection order if they fear that a child is in danger, but almost all applications are made by local authorities. Applications often tend to be made at short notice because of the nature of the order. If a local authority has made an application for an emergency protection order in relation to your child, it is important that you have access to legal advice as soon as possible.
Our specialist solicitors are experienced in dealing with these types of urgent applications and court hearings. If you are a parent that has received notice of an application for an emergency protection order, or whose child is subject to an emergency protection order, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. Please call us on 0161 696 6193 for a free, no obligation initial chat with one of our legal advisors.
The applicant usually has to give the parents one day’s notice of their application for an emergency protection order however, in particularly serious situations, there is no need to issue any notice. This could include situations where the child’s life is under threat or it is believed that a parent will take the child from their home without permission.
