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It is a court order that allows a child to live permanently with someone other than their parents, giving that person parental responsibility.
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Special Guardianship Orders
When a child cannot live with their parents, finding a stable and long-term home becomes a priority. A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) can provide that stability by giving a child a secure home with a family member or close friend. These situations are often emotionally complex, and early legal advice can help you understand your options and what steps are needed to protect the child’s future.
At Warner Goodman LLP, our Family Law experts are here to support you with clear, practical advice when you are considering becoming a Special Guardian or are involved in a local authority assessment.
Phone: 023 8063 9311
Email: enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk
What is a Special Guardianship Order?
A Special Guardianship Order is a court order that places a child with someone other than their parents on a long-term basis. This is often a relative, family friend, or foster carer who is able to provide a safe and stable home.
It is designed to give the child security while still maintaining a legal link with their birth parents.
A Special Guardianship Order:
- Gives the special guardian parental responsibility for the child
- Allows the guardian to make day-to-day decisions about the child’s care
- Limits the birth parents’ ability to be involved in important decisions
- Keeps the legal relationship between the child and their birth parents intact
- Usually lasts until the child turns 18
There are some important exceptions, such as changing a child’s surname or taking them outside the UK for more than three months, which may still require parental consent or court permission.
How We Can Help
Applying for a Special Guardianship Order can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves assessments from the local authority and court involvement. We are here to guide you through the process and support you at every stage.
At Warner Goodman LLP, we can:
 | Explain what a Special Guardianship Order means for you and the child |
| Advise you before and during the local authority assessment process |
| Support you in responding to local authority reports and recommendations |
| Help you prepare your application to the family court |
| Represent you in court hearings if needed |
| Advise on your rights and responsibilities as a Special Guardian |
We focus on making the process as clear and manageable as possible, while always keeping the child’s best interests at the centre.
If you need advice or support, contact our team today:
Phone: 023 8063 9311
Email: enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for a Special Guardianship Order?
Relatives, family friends, or foster carers over 18 may apply, usually where the child has already been living with them or there is a strong existing relationship.
How is it different from adoption?
Unlike adoption, a Special Guardianship Order does not end the legal relationship between the child and their birth parents.
How long does a Special Guardianship Order last?
It normally lasts until the child turns 18, unless the court decides it should end earlier.
Do I need approval to apply?
In some cases, you can apply directly. In others, you may need permission from the court or agreement from those with parental responsibility.
What does a Special Guardian do?
A Special Guardian makes most day-to-day decisions about the child’s care, education, and wellbeing.
Will the local authority be involved?
Yes, in most cases the local authority will carry out an assessment and provide a report to the court.
Why Choose Warner Goodman LLP?
Special Guardianship cases are sensitive and often arise during difficult family circumstances. Having the right legal support can make a significant difference to the outcome.
| Experienced family law solicitors in complex children cases |
| Clear, supportive advice throughout the Special Guardianship process |
| Transparent pricing and Legal Aid available in eligible cases |
| Rated ‘Excellent’ on ReviewSolicitors.co.uk based on 1,000+ reviews |
| Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) |
We understand how important it is to provide children with stability and security, and we are here to help you achieve that.
Speak to Our Team
If you are considering applying for a Special Guardianship Order or have been asked to take part in an assessment, we can help you understand your position and next steps.
We support families across Hampshire and beyond, with offices in Southampton, Portsmouth, Fareham, Chandler’s Ford, and Waterlooville.
Phone: 023 8063 9311
Email: enquiries@warnergoodman.co.uk
Alternatively, complete our online enquiry form to request a confidential callback.
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