Local Authority v C & Anor

Local Authority v C & Anor

The court found that the deprivation of liberty declaration was necessary and proportionate given A's high risk of exploitation, the lack of suitable alternatives, and the specialist nature of the placement. The restrictions were the least restrictive means to achieve the objective of keeping A safe, and the Local Authority was granted permission to apply under the court’s inherent jurisdiction.

Parties
Applicant: Local Authority; Respondent Mother: C; Respondent Father: D; Children's Guardian: Children's Guardian
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
24 October 2025
Procedural Posture
Family / Ex Tempore Judgment on Deprivation of Liberty Declaration and Placement Approval
Outcome
Deprivation of liberty declaration granted; placement approved; directions made as requested.
Legal Topics
Deprivation of Liberty, Inherent Jurisdiction, Care Orders, Child Exploitation, Placement Costs
Family Law Child Protection Deprivation of Liberty Inherent Jurisdiction Care Orders Child Exploitation Placement Costs

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Parties

Local Authority

Applicant

C

Respondent Mother

D

Respondent Father

Children's Guardian

Children's Guardian

Procedural Posture

Family / Ex Tempore Judgment on Deprivation of Liberty Declaration and Placement Approval

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the deprivation of liberty declaration is necessary and proportionate for A's placement
  2. 2 Whether the proposed placement and restrictions are the least restrictive means to keep A safe
  3. 3 Whether the Local Authority should have permission to apply for the exercise of the Court’s inherent jurisdiction

Ratio Decidendi

The court found that the deprivation of liberty declaration was necessary and proportionate given A's high risk of exploitation, the lack of suitable alternatives, and the specialist nature of the placement. The restrictions were the least restrictive means to achieve the objective of keeping A safe, and the Local Authority was granted permission to apply under the court’s inherent jurisdiction.

Court Disposition

Deprivation of liberty declaration granted; placement approved; directions made as requested.

Orders

  • Deprivation of liberty declaration to remain in force until 5pm on the day of the IRH.
  • Directions made as invited by the Local Authority.