What is the ratio in Re L (Care: Threshold Criteria)?

The threshold criteria for care proceedings under s.31 Children Act 1989 must be assessed at the time when the local authority first intervenes or commences proceedings, not at any later date.

What did the court decide in Re L (Care: Threshold Criteria)?

The Court of Appeal decided that courts cannot rely on circumstances arising after intervention to satisfy threshold criteria - the assessment must be made at the point of initial intervention.

Why is Re L (Care: Threshold Criteria) important for family law?

It establishes the crucial timing element for care proceedings, preventing retrospective justification of intervention and ensuring proper procedural safeguards in child protection cases.

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