John Eekelaar, Robert Dingwall

The Children Act 1989 introduced the most radical changes to child care law for a generation. Eekelaar and Dingwall provide a concise, practical guide to the legislation for all professionals practising in this area.

Chapter 1 The historical background; Chapter 2 A new framework for private law: parental responsibility and children's rights; Chapter 3 A new framework for public law: local authorities and the courts; Chapter 4 The organizational context of child protection practice; Chapter 5 The powers and duties of local authorities: family support and preventive action; Chapter 6 The acquisition of compulsory powers: first steps; Chapter 7 Grounds for bringing care or supervision proceedings; Chapter 8 Preparing a case; Chapter 9 Presenting a case; Chapter 10 The outcome of care proceedings;