Thousands of children trapped as Law Society calls for investment in family courts
25 Sep 2025
2 minutes read
News
It is critical that our family courts are not overlooked when trying to restore the UK justice system, the Law Society of England and Wales warns as the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) publishes its latest family court figures*.
There were 7,123 children involved in new public law cases** from April to June 2025, with an average wait time of 38 weeks for a final decision to be reached regarding a child’s arrangements, well beyond the 26-week time limit.
In private family law cases*** 20,453 children were involved, with cases taking an average of 39 weeks to reach an outcome.
The Law Society strongly advises the government to increase investment in family courts and civil legal aid.
They are vital public services that ensure a level playing field in cases involving care placements and family arrangements.
Law Society president Richard Atkinson said: “The amount the government invests in our family courts directly affects the welfare of children who are involved in ongoing cases.
“The family courts touch many lives on a daily basis, yet they are often forgotten when it comes to investment and upkeep. The family courts are a vital part of our communities and allow families to prioritise children’s safety and security in the justice system.
“Families must be served better by our courts. Legal aid must be accessible when a child’s welfare and home are at stake.
“We urge the government to further invest in family courts and civil legal aid to ensure families can access justice, free children from legal limbo, and allow them to move on with their lives.”
**Public family law cases arise when local authorities step in to protect a child’s welfare, often through a care order. Care orders give local authorities parental responsibility for a child, covering education, healthcare and day-to-day decisions. In many cases, the child is placed in a foster home during this time.
***Private children law cases occur often after a relationship breakdown, when families apply for arrangements relating to where their children live and who they have contact with.
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