An invaluable resource for all social workers in practice with children and families, this book examines key issues such as child protection, family support, care planning, adoption and case preparation for court. With illustrative case studies throughout, the text is divided into two sections:

Part 1 explores the legal context of social work practice with children, examining how international human rights standards are absorbed within domestic law.

Part 2 explores the application of the law, policies and systems to individual case work, illustrating rights-based thinking in practice.

Accessible to those without a background in law, the book highlights links between social work standards and legal values and rules. With promotion of the rights of children and families a measure of professional competence and legal obligation, the book helps readers satisfy social work standards and use their knowledge of the law to improve their practice.

The book is vital reading for all levels of social work student, including those undertaking the post-qualifying award in child care, as well as being an indispensable resource for practitioners working with children and families.

Jane Williams is a lecturer in law at the University of Swansea. She specialises in social work law, and children's rights. Other publications include Children and Citizenship (SAGE, 2007), co-edited with Antonella Invernizzi.