John Vater KC in A Local Authority v A & Ors [2025] EWFC 311 (B)

10th Oct 2025 | Cases

John Vater KC, in structed by Daniells Family Law, acted for one of the two fathers in A Local Authority v A & Ors [2025] EWFC 311 (B); a fact-finding in public law proceedings, to determine the truth of allegations of sexual touching, physical abuse, neglect and failure to protect. John led Ryan Morgan of St John’s Chambers.

This case involved fact-finding proceedings regarding allegations of neglect, sexual harm, and failure to protect four children. John acted for father (B) who child (D) claimed had touched her inappropriately.

The court found that the mother and B persistently failed to maintain safe home conditions, ensure hygiene and medical care, or adhere to safety plans following intra-sibling sexual abuse. The mother showed deep hostility towards D, who was a victim of abuse, causing significant emotional harm. Serious systemic failures by professionals led to possible contamination of evidence, preventing safe findings on separate allegations against B. The court criticised professional safeguarding standards and highlighted a need for urgent training and reform.

John Vater KC in A Local Authority v A & Ors [2025] EWFC 311 (B)

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