Interim Care Order Solicitors
An Interim Care Order is a temporary order made by the Family Court during care proceedings. It gives the local authority parental responsibility for a child while the court investigates the concerns and decides what should happen in the longer term. For parents, an Interim Care Order can be extremely distressing, particularly if the local authority is asking for a child to be removed from home.
If social services are applying for an Interim Care Order, or one has already been made, it is important to get legal advice immediately. HRS Family Law Solicitors can explain your rights, represent you in court and help you respond to the local authority’s concerns.
What is an Interim Care Order?
An Interim Care Order, often called an ICO, is made before the court reaches a final decision in care proceedings. It is not the same as a final Care Order. It is temporary and is usually reviewed during the case.
The court may make an Interim Care Order if it considers that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the threshold criteria are met and that the order is necessary and proportionate. The court must consider the child’s welfare and whether there is a safer or less restrictive option available.
Need more information about our Interim Care Order Services?
What does an Interim Care Order mean?
If an Interim Care Order is made, the local authority shares parental responsibility with the parents. Parents do not lose parental responsibility, but the local authority can make important decisions about the child’s care, placement, schooling, medical treatment and day-to-day arrangements.
In some cases, a child may remain at home under an Interim Care Order. In other cases, the local authority may ask for the child to live with foster carers, relatives or another approved carer while the proceedings continue.
Can I challenge an Interim Care Order?
Yes. Parents can oppose an application for an Interim Care Order. The court must look carefully at the evidence and decide whether the order is necessary at that stage. If the local authority is asking for removal, the court must consider whether separation is required for the child’s safety or whether the risks can be managed in another way.
A solicitor can help you identify weaknesses in the local authority’s evidence, prepare your response and explain what the court will need to see.
How long does an Interim Care Order last?
An Interim Care Order is temporary. It is usually made for a set period and may be renewed while the care proceedings continue. The proceedings themselves are generally expected to finish within 26 weeks, although the court can allow more time in some cases.
Legal Aid for Interim Care Order cases
Parents involved in care proceedings usually qualify for non-means tested Legal Aid. This means you may be entitled to free legal advice and representation regardless of income. We can confirm your position and help you access representation quickly.
Why choose HRS Family Law Solicitors?
HRS Family Law Solicitors are specialist family lawyers. We regularly represent parents and family members where social services are involved. We understand the urgency of Interim Care Order hearings and the importance of presenting your case clearly from the beginning.
Our approach is practical, supportive and focused on protecting your relationship with your child wherever possible.
Speak to an Interim Care Order solicitor
If you are facing an Interim Care Order hearing, contact HRS Family Law Solicitors urgently. Early advice can help you understand your options and protect your position in court.
Why choose HRS Family Law Solicitors?
No. An Interim Care Order is temporary. The court will continue to consider assessments, evidence and whether your child can safely return home.
Possibly. Family members can be assessed as potential carers. It is important to put forward relatives as early as possible.
The local authority must consider contact arrangements. The amount and type of contact will depend on the circumstances and the child’s welfare.
