28 January 2026
Hayes + Storr launches legal aid service to support families involved with children’s services
Hayes + Storr Solicitors has launched a new legal aid service to support parents, grandparents, and family members when Children’s Services become involved with their children.
The service is led by Carly Sullivan, Head of Children Law, who represents families in child protection matters, pre-proceedings meetings and care proceedings in the Family Court.
“Many people come to us not knowing what Children’s Services involvement actually means,” she said. “There is often a lack of clear information at an early stage. My role is to explain the process carefully, outline the different stages, and help families engage constructively with professionals while ensuring their legal rights are protected.”
In cases where concerns escalate, local authorities may begin pre-proceedings, sometimes referred to as PLO (Public Law Outline) meetings. These meetings are intended to address concerns before court action is considered. Parents invited to attend are automatically entitled to legal aid, regardless of income, allowing them to receive independent legal advice and representation.
“Having legal support at the pre-proceedings stage can help families understand expectations and work towards positive outcomes, with court proceedings avoided wherever possible.” Says Carly Sullivan.
Where matters do proceed to court, Hayes + Storr provides representation throughout care proceedings, which may arise where local authorities believe children are at risk of significant harm. Legal aid funding covers advice, preparation of court documents and representation at hearings for parents, grandparents and others with parental responsibility.
Rob Colwell, Director and Head of Family Services at Hayes + Storr, said the service reflects the firm’s focus on access to justice. “Care proceedings can have profound and long-lasting consequences for families. Legal aid ensures that people are able to take part in the process properly, with specialist advice and representation, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
Carly Sullivan is a member of the Law Society Children Panel, which recognises solicitors with specialist expertise in children law. The firm says its approach is focused on clarity, proportionality and child welfare, supporting families through what can be a complex and unfamiliar legal system.
If children in your care are at risk, call Hayes + Storr on 01328 863231 and ask to speak to the Family Services team.
