What is a Placement Order?

A placement order is a legal ruling made by the court which allows a Local Authority to place a child with approved prospective adoptive parents. The adopters would have passed all the checks and are deemed a suitable match for the child. This order does not mean the child has been adopted but it allows the Local Authority to begin making plans to adopt the child.

When would my child be adopted?

Any child that is placed for adoption would be subject to further court proceedings. The Local Authority will have to apply for an Adoption Order and any parent would be given notice of that application. Depending upon the circumstances of your case, there may be scope to argue or contest the adoption order application. You should contact us straight away so that we can review this and advise further.

Disclaimer: The material contained in this fact sheet is for general guidance only. It is specific to the law of England and Wales, and represents a brief outline of the law current as at the date of the fact sheet. It is not intended to constitute, or to be a substitute for, legal advice specific to your case.

Information up to date as at 10/3/23.