Contemporary Family Justice

Kim Holt is Professor of Social Work and Family Law and Head of Department for Social Work and Communities at Northumbria University and a qualified barrister in the area of Family Law. Prior to being called to the bar in 2005 Kim practised as a social worker in the area of child protection for 20 years.

• 1. Introduction: The origin of remote control practice. 2. The remote control approach in the family courts: a dickensian misadventure? 3. Mediation: the holy grail of reforms to working with complex families. 4. Why parents matter: exploring the impact of instrumental approaches to resolving complex situations. 5. Decision making and planning for children: the need for a holistic assessment of the family and an understanding of permanency planning. 6. Challenges for practice: dealing with complex issues that increase risk for children within a family justice system. 7. Findings from research: pre-proceedings practice. 8. Conclusion: What has happened since the Family Justice Review: a brighter future for children and their families?

This essential text has an engaging, contemporary feel to it that challenges the reader to reflect upon practice. Based upon research and an analysis of recent changes to practice, Holt presents the aspirations and subsequent impact of the public law outline. The book provides an enriching and stimulating debate as it explores the tensions and dilemmas inherent within the operationalisation of the public law outline. The structure and use of case studies bring the process to life offering concrete learning opportunities for students. It not only provides complex material in an accessible way but provides a detailed account of the legal process. It is refreshing to find a socio-legal textbook that moves beyond mere description. A forthright, honest and helpful account of the complex world of assessment and decision making in child protection within our current family justice system.