The huge success of this book since first publication in 1990 has shown the need for a clear up to date book on the law for both trainee and qualified social workers. The book is divided into two parts. Part 1 covers the statutory duties of the social worker, with full coverage of the lawrelating to child protection, community care, mental health and criminal procedure. Part 1 also explains how courts work, what the Human Rights Act means for social workers, how to give evidence, how to prepare cases for court, and how to write reports. Part II deals with areas where socialworkers may need to advise their clients: how to find a lawyer or other adviser, how legal aid works, family breakdown, housing problems, money matters and discrimination. The book covers the core areas recommended by CCETSW for social work training and does so in a style that makes the lawunderstandable. The new edition gives a clear and up to date picture of how the Children Act is working, and includes details of the new Working Together guidance. All chapters have been updated with the most recent case law, legislative changes and government guidance.

The growing impact of theHuman Rights Act is explained in the context of each area of law examined. The vast number of changes in criminal procedure and sentencing of young people are all covered. Developments in anti-discrimination law, particularly under the Disability Discrimination Act, are covered in some detail.Chapters on community care and mental health have been expanded.