When people think about care proceedings, they often picture the hearing itself: the judge, the advocates and the decisions being made in court. What is less often seen is the work that takes place in the days, weeks and months beforehand to ensure children, families and professionals have the information they need before those decisions are made.

At GT Stewart Solicitors, I have had the opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners, develop my legal knowledge and build practical skills in case management, communication and legal administration. The support of colleagues and the collaborative nature of the Family & Childcare team have played a significant role in my professional development and the experience I have gained whilst working in this area over the last few years.

I find the work I do truly rewarding and valuable. One of my favourite parts of the job is attending hearings with counsel - getting out there and seeing why what I do behind the desk is so important and how it all comes together at Court. Putting faces to names of people you email everyday is always a delight too!

Much of a Paralegal's work takes plays behind the scenes, but it plays a crucial role in keeping proceedings moving forward. Whether preparing court bundles, liaising with professionals, supporting clients through difficult circumstances or ensuring key deadlines are met, every task contributes to the wider aim of helping the Court make informed decisions about a child's future.

One thing that has particularly surprised me about working in care proceedings is the level of collaboration involved. Solicitors, counsel, social workers, Children's Guardians and other professionals all play an important role in ensuring the Court has the information it needs to make decisions for children. Seeing how these different professionals work together has given me a greater appreciation of the importance of communication, organisation and teamwork.

Every care case is different, but one thing remains the same: outcomes are often shaped by the collective efforts of everyone involved, both in and outside the courtroom. Being part of that process and supporting families through some of the most challenging periods of their lives is a responsibility I value greatly.

By Simi Chaggar, Paralegal, Family & Childcare Team, GT Stewart Solicitors