Background:
Both parents intended to challenge aspects of a section 7 report.
Relevant Law:
Children Act 1989; welfare checklist.
Issues:
Preparation for a contested two-day final hearing.
Challenges:
Managing a distressed client while ensuring structured preparation and focused witness evidence.
Decision:
Directions were secured for updated witness statements and progression to final hearing. Clear advice was provided on structuring evidence by reference to the welfare checklist and school attendance records.
Robust preparation is essential where findings are contested and expert recommendations are disputed.