Child Protection Lawyers

In Queensland, the safety of children is governed by The Child Protection Act 1999 (The Act).  It is the legal framework which guides the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs, with regards to child protection and welfare.

The main principle of The Act is “that the safety, wellbeing and best interests of a child, both through childhood and for the rest of the child’s life, are paramount.”

Child Safety Services

The role of enforcing the protections provided is undertaken by Child Safety Services.  They are there to protect children from significant harm or the risk of significant harm where their parents are unable and/or unwilling to protect them.

This includes cases of neglect:

• Physical neglect – failure to provide food, clothing, shelter or supervision
• Medical neglect – failure to provide medical services
• Educational neglect – not ensuring appropriate educational standards are met
• Emotional neglect – not providing a safe and caring environment.

It also obviously includes cases of all types of abuse:

• Physical
• Sexual
• Emotional.

Child Protection Investigation

Child Safety Services can receive information from anyone who feels that a child is in danger of harm. There is also a system of mandatory reporting that must happen. In Queensland, mandatory reporters include:

• Police
• Teachers
• Medical Professionals
• Care workers.

Once that information is received, the Department will initiate an investigation to determine if there is genuine concern for the safety of the child.

Child Protection Lawyers

It is at this point that you, as a parent, may feel that you need assistance and support in dealing with Child Safety Services. As a parent or guardian you have the right to seek legal advice at any time during an investigation.  You are entitled to know about all of the allegations and participate in any decision making.

However, it can be overwhelming and intimidating to deal with the allegations and the investigation. That’s where a Child Protection Lawyer is vital in assisting you through the process. 

An investigation may result in the matter proceeding to court and our experienced Child Protection Lawyers can expertly represent you and help to obtain the best possible outcome.

Here at KLM Solicitors, we are experienced Child Protection Lawyers who aim to ensure family stability and reunification wherever possible. Contact us today by phoning (07) 3733 0901.