ML (Use of Skype Technology), Re [2013] EWHC 2091 (Fam) (18 July 2013)

Skype technology can be used to obtain and record parental consent to adoption from abroad when proper safeguards are in place, but is not suitable for taking formal evidence in court unless mediated by secure systems.

Citation: [2013] EWHC 2091 (Fam)
Parties: Applicants' Advocate: Helen Broughton (Morecrofts Solicitors); Guardian's Advocate: Anne Thompson (instructed by LHT Solicitors)
Jurisdiction: England and Wales
Judgment Date: 18 July 2013
Procedural Posture: Family Law Adoption and Relocation / Judgment After Hearing
Outcome: Adoption order granted; application to take evidence by Skype refused in relocation case.
Legal Topics: Use of Technology in Court, Consent to Adoption, Taking Evidence From Abroad, Procedural Safeguards in International Adoption

Family Law Adoption Law International Law Use of Technology in Court Consent to Adoption Taking Evidence From Abroad Procedural Safeguards in International Adoption

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

More case intelligence is available

Unlock the full research layer for this judgment.

Full judgment text Downloadable case file Legal principles 2 Authorities cited 2 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 2

Parties

Helen Broughton (Morecrofts Solicitors)

Applicants' Advocate

Anne Thompson (instructed by LHT Solicitors)

Guardian's Advocate

Procedural Posture

Family Law Adoption and Relocation / Judgment After Hearing

Legal Issues

1 Whether Skype technology can be used to obtain parental consent to adoption from abroad
2 Whether evidence from a remote witness can be taken via Skype in relocation proceedings

Ratio Decidendi

Court Disposition

Adoption order granted; application to take evidence by Skype refused in relocation case.

Orders

Adoption order made in favour of applicants for the child.
Consent of biological parents obtained and recorded via Skype with safeguards.