Matthew Brookes-Baker and Mavis Amonoo-Acquah in Child A & Ors [2024] EWFC 385
1st May 2025 | Cases
Matthew Brookes-Baker was instructed by the Applicant local authority and Mavis Amonoo-Acquah was instructed by Dawson Cornwell for the Respondent mother in Child A & Ors [2024] EWFC 385; care proceedings in the High Court, issued following findings of abuse by father.
The court had previously established findings of abuse, which prompted the initiation of these proceedings. Mother also made allegations of alienating behaviour by Father. The primary concern was the children’s welfare and determining the most suitable living arrangements to ensure their safety and well-being. The four children were aged between 12 to six.
The High Court discussed the importance of a proportionality evaluation in such cases, balancing the need for thorough investigation against the potential impact on the children’s welfare. The court also considered the use of wardship but ultimately decided that care proceedings under the Children Act 1989 were more appropriate, as they provided a clear statutory framework for addressing the children’s needs.
After a comprehensive evaluation of the circumstances, the court issued care orders, resulting in the removal of the children from their father’s custody. The plan outlined a transition for the children to be placed into foster care, with a long-term objective of reuniting them with their mother, contingent upon her ability to provide a safe and supportive environment.
