Child in United Kingdom

Definition of Child

In accordance with the work A Dictionary of Law, this is a description of Child :

1. A young perso There is no definitive definition of a child: the term has been used for persons under the age of 14, under the age of 16, and sometimes under the age of 18 (an *infant). Each case depends on its context and the wording of the statute governing it. For the purposes of the Children Act 1989 and the Family Law Act 1996 a child is a person under the age of 18.

2. An offspring of parents. In wills, statutes, and other legal documents, the effect of the Family Law Reform Act 1987 is that there is a presumption that (unless the contrary intention is apparent) the word “child” includes any illegitimate child (See illegitimacy). Adopted children are treated as the legitimate children of their adoptive parents.

See also child of the family; qualifying child.

Definition of Child Being Looked After By A Local Authority

In accordance with the work A Dictionary of Law, this is a description of Child Being Looked After By A Local Authority : A child who is either the subject of a *care order or who is being provided with accommodation by the local authority on a voluntary basis (See voluntary accommodation). In respect of such a child, the local authority must seek, Where possible, to promote contact between the child and its parents, relatives, and others closely connected with the child. Accommodation should be near where the child lives, and siblings should be accommodated together. A written plan should be drawn up before a child is placed; all the people involved in the plan, including the child (so far as is consistent with his age and understanding), should be consulted.