Information for Solicitors
Solicitors have an important role to play in the Children’s Hearings System.
The role of the solicitor at a Children’s Hearing is to help the child, young person or Relevant Person to participate effectively in the Hearing.
This can include giving the child, young person or Relevant Person’s views directly to the Hearing. The role also includes assisting them to give their own views, including in writing or by other means, ensuring that the Hearing is taking the legal rights of the person into account in their consideration, or a combination of these roles.
Solicitor good practice
A good practice guide for solicitors in Hearings was recently published (January 2026).
The guide was produced in collaboration with Our Hearings, Our Voice (an independent board of Hearings-experienced children and young people), solicitors, practitioners and relevant stakeholders.
The detailed guide – which is supported by a shorter top tips guide – provides a helpful resource for solicitors, but also supports standard setting for expectations in Hearings.
Any questions?
If you are a solicitor supporting a child, young person or a Relevant Person in a Hearing and have any questions, please contact the Children’s Reporter. Contact information for all our local offices is available in the Contact Us/Office Location section of our website.
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