Care Proceedings with an International Element : An Empirical Study (Studies in Private International Law)

Presenting the findings of a study of 100 care cases, this book provides rigorous analysis of how jurisdictional issues are determined and how information sharing of child protection operates across borders. It draws on the first empirical study of the operation of private international law instruments (Brussels IIa and the 1996 Hague Convention) in care proceedings in England. It also illustrates how prospective carers are assessed and the routes which are used to secure legal permanence for children living overseas. In so doing, it identifies all the ways in which children’s welfare interests are compromised in the cross-border context. But it does suggest solutions: identifying how private international law instruments, their interpretation and application, should be improved to promote the best interests of children. This is an impressive work, which will be invaluable to both scholars and practitioners.