Child returned to the care of the Mother after the court concluded the child had suffered a significant head injury, but threshold was not proven against the Mother

Anthony Forde, led by Alison Easton KC, successfully represented a mother in care proceedings concerning serious head injuries to a child. The Court declined to make findings against her and returned the child to her care.

Context of the proceedings

Earlier this year, Coram Chambers represented a mother in care proceedings in which a young child had suffered an unexplained and serious head injury. The mother was represented by Alison Easton KC and Anthony Forde of Coram Chambers.

The local authority sought findings that the mother was responsible for causing the injuries or failed to protect the child. 

Court’s decision

At the conclusion of a fact-finding hearing, the Court determined that the mother was not responsible for the injuries and threshold was not proven against her. As a result, the child was swiftly returned to her care.

The wider impact

This case highlights the importance of a careful forensic examination of medical evidence within care proceedings. It also demonstrates how robust representation can ensure that families are not separated without proper cause.

For those interested, the full judgment is available to read below.