In the matter of B (a Child) (FC) UKSC 2013 / 0022

Three members of Chambers, Frank Feehan QC, Anna McKenna and Sheila Phil-Ebosie appeared in a care proceedings matter in the Supreme Court on 25th and 26th February 2013 as appellants in a case for which Baroness Hale, Lord Wilson and Lord Carnworth considered the following points of law to be of general public importance:

1. The meaning of significant harm
2. The relationship between the nature and gravity of the harm which is feared and the degree of likelihood of that harm being suffered in the future
3. The proportionality of a care order with a care plan of adoption in a case such as this
4. The proper approach of the Court of Appeal to a finding that threshold has been crossed

All family practitioners will note the importance of this case. It is hoped that a decision will be out soon;  any updates will be posted on our website and twitter feed @42br_Family  – watch this space for follow-up seminars!

ANNA MCKENNA

20th Mar 2013