The law is central to social work, regulating practice, ensuring accountability and providing professionals with the power and authority to work effectively. Yet it does not, and cannot, provide an answer to the complex human questions that lie at the heart of the social work task and, like social work itself, it is subject to constant development and change. This major text aims to enrich thinking and debate about this crucial and challenging area, thereby encouraging reflective practice. It combines discussion of conceptual debates with a focus on key areas of law and practice and on the perspectives of both users and practitioners. It offers unique insights into the ways in which the law guides decision-making in social work and provides a framework for professional interventions. Divided into three sections, each of which sheds lights in different ways on the challenges and critical issues raised at the interface between social work and the law, the book covers such important subjects as: * the relationship between social work values and the law; * partnership with service users; * risk and professional judgement; * human rights; * child protection and family support; * elder abuse; * youth justice; * disability and special educations needs; * community care. In its breadth of coverage, focus, and clear, readable style, this is an essential text for all those undertaking social work education or looking to update and develop their knowledge of the law.