PLO Order Social Services Solicitors
If social services have contacted you about concerns for your child’s welfare, it can be an incredibly worrying time. You may have heard the term Public Law Outline (PLO) or received a pre-proceedings letter. This means the local authority is considering taking your case to court to protect your child’s safety.
Our child care solicitors specialise in supporting parents through the PLO process. We act quickly to protect your rights, help you understand what’s happening, and work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
What Is the Public Law Outline (PLO)?
The Public Law Outline is a legal framework used by local authorities and the Family Court in England and Wales when there are serious concerns about a child’s welfare. It sets out the steps social services must take before starting formal care proceedings.
The aim of the PLO process is to give parents a final opportunity to make positive changes and avoid the case going to court. It encourages early intervention, cooperation, and support to keep children safe within their families wherever possible.
When the PLO Process Begins
The PLO process usually starts when social services believe a child may be at risk of significant harm and earlier interventions, such as a Child Protection Plan or Child in Need Plan, have not resolved the concerns.
You will receive a pre-proceedings letter (sometimes called a “letter before proceedings”) explaining the local authority’s concerns. This letter will invite you to a PLO meeting and advise you to seek legal advice immediately.
If you receive this letter, it’s vital to contact a solicitor straight away. You are entitled to free legal advice under the public law legal help scheme, regardless of your income.
What Happens at a PLO Meeting
A PLO meeting (also known as a pre-proceedings meeting) is attended by:
- The parents or carers
- The local authority’s social worker, team manager and solicitor
- Your solicitor
During the meeting, social services will explain their concerns and what changes they expect to see. You and your solicitor will have the opportunity to respond, ask questions, and agree on a plan to address those concerns.
This meeting is often the last chance to avoid court proceedings. If progress is made, the local authority may decide not to issue care proceedings. If not, they may apply to the Family Court for a Care Order or Supervision Order.
Key Stages of the PLO Process
The PLO process typically follows four main stages:
1. Pre-proceedings letter: Sent within five days of the decision to begin the PLO process, advising parents to seek legal advice.
2. PLO meeting: Held within one week of the letter being sent, giving parents a chance to respond and agree on a plan.
3. Period of change: Usually lasting up to eight weeks, this is the time given for parents to make improvements and demonstrate progress.
4. Review meeting: Held within two months to assess progress. The local authority then decides whether to close the case, allow more time, or begin care proceedings.
How Solicitors Help During the PLO Process
Having a solicitor involved early can make a significant difference. Our child care solicitors can:
- Attend PLO meetings with you and speak on your behalf
- Explain the process and what social services expect from you
- Help you understand and respond to the local authority’s concerns
- Liaise with professionals such as social workers and Cafcass
- Ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard
We aim to help you work constructively with social services to keep your family together wherever possible.
What Happens If the Case Goes to Court
If the local authority decides to issue care proceedings, the case will move to the Family Court. The court will then decide what orders, if any, are needed to protect the child. These may include:
- Care Orders, giving the local authority parental responsibility
- Supervision Orders, allowing the child to remain at home under supervision
- Emergency Protection Orders, if there is immediate risk of harm
Our solicitors will represent you throughout the proceedings, ensuring your case is presented clearly and your rights are fully protected.
Legal Aid & Costs
If you have received a pre-proceedings letter or are involved in PLO proceedings, you are automatically entitled to free legal aid. This covers all advice, representation, and attendance at meetings or court hearings.
Our team can assess your eligibility immediately and begin work on your case without delay.
Why Choose National Legal Service?
• One of the UK’s largest providers of family legal aid
• Experienced in complex child protection and PLO cases
• Offices across England for local support
• Trauma-informed, empathetic approach
• Clear communication and practical guidance
We understand how stressful it is when social services become involved with your family. Our solicitors will support you with compassion, professionalism and a focus on achieving the best outcome for your child.
Speak to Our Child Care Solicitors
If you’ve received a pre-proceedings letter or been invited to a PLO meeting, contact us immediately. Early legal advice can make all the difference.
Call 020 3601 5051 or request a confidential consultation with one of our child care solicitors today.