• 0161 696 6193
  • Request a callback
Stephensons Solicitors LLP Banner Image

End of life decisions and withdrawal of life sustaining treatment

At Stephensons we are equipped with specific knowledge and expertise in this area. We have supported and been appointed by parents when Trusts have sought declarations under the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court seeking to withdraw life sustaining treatment. We understand the importance of handling such cases robustly, with the utmost compassion.

Specialist children law experts play a key role in helping parents and relatives understand their rights and the legal framework surrounding end of life decisions. This is particularly important where there may be uncertainty, disagreement, or the potential for court involvement. Expert advice ensures that decisions are made in a way that is properly informed and focused on the child’s best interests. Contact our team on 0161 696 6193.

Excellent4.6 score on Trustpilot
Rated 4.6 / 5 Based on 2582 reviews
Read all reviews

Legal support when facing end of life decisions

Early legal advice helps to avoid delay. In these situations, time is often very sensitive. Prompt involvement of experienced legal professionals can support constructive dialogue with medical professionals, preventing prolonged uncertainty for the family.

When families are also trying to process complex and sometimes conflicting medical advice, having a legal expert alongside can be reassuring. It allows information to be explained clearly. Practical implications are explained supporting families to make informed decisions.

Legal support also ensures that the views of parents are properly articulated and understood. We help our clients express their wishes clearly and effectively, advocating and conveying the family’s perspective within the legal process.

It is also important for families to know that legal aid is available in these types of cases, meaning that access to specialist advice is not limited by financial circumstances. This ensures that parents or those with parental responsibility can obtain expert representation and guidance when they need it most.

Timely legal advice from children law experts helps to bring clarity, reduce uncertainty, and ensure that families feel heard and supported.

Our experience

G (Discontinuation of Ventilatory Support), Re [2026] EWHC 812 (Fam) (02 April 2026)

The decision in this case reflects the well-established approach taken by the courts in cases concerning the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for children. It highlights the careful and sensitive way in which the court considers parental views and religious beliefs alongside extensive expert medical evidence when determining a child’s best interests. The clients were represented by Tim Galbraith and Victoria Melluish.

If you would like legal support when faced with making end of life decisions for a child you have parental responsibility for call our specialist team today on 0161 696 6193 or fill in our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. 

loading staff

Domestic abuse protection notices and orders DAPNs and DAPOs - new legal action for victims of domestic abuse/domestic violence

The family court has the power to grant protective orders to victims of domestic abuse, including Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders. Such orders are more commonly referred to as "injunctions". More recently Domestic Abuse...

Read more

Changing a Child Arrangements Order: When will the court listen?

A Child Arrangements Order is designed to provide stability and clarity for children ad their families. However, as life changes, arrangements that once worked well may no longer be suitable. It’s a question we get asked a lot: Can I change a Child...

Read more

Family reorder

  • Victoria Gethin
  • Rachel Benett
  • Emma Roberts​​
  • Tim Galbraith
  • ​​Gwyneth John​
  • Jackie Price
  • Nicola Clayton
  • Bethany Corday​​
  • Amy Jones
  • Victoria Melluish
  • Lauren Day
  • Kath Geere​​
  • Catherine Gaskell​
  • Stephen Jones
  • Jack Chapman
  • Benjamin Armstrong​
  • Nicola Horrocks
  • Catherine Hill
  • Claire Pilling
  • Meerab Mazhar
  • Sally Smith
  • Jessica Macaulay
  • Lucy Hesketh