If your child’s school has contacted you about attendance, this can feel worrying.
This page is here to explain what legal intervention is, when it may be considered, and—most importantly—what support is available to help your child attend school regularly.
Our approach
Our aim is always to work with families, not against them.
Legal intervention is only considered as a last resort, after schools and the local authority have:
- Spoken with you about attendance concerns
- Tried to understand any difficulties your child or family may be facing
- Offered support or adjustments where possible
- Given time for attendance to improve
Most attendance concerns do not end in legal action.
When might legal intervention be considered?
Legal intervention may be considered if:
- Attendance remains very low or continues to decline
- Support has been offered but attendance has not improved
- Communication or engagement has broken down
Each case is looked at individually and carefully.
What does the law say about school attendance?
Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to make sure their child attends school regularly.
Under the law, the local authority can take action where attendance does not improve, but this only happens after support has been considered.
What happens if a case goes to court?
If court action is considered, parents will be informed in writing and given details of the process.
Some cases are dealt with through the Single Justice Procedure, where a magistrate considers the case using written information. Parents do not always need to attend court.
What happens if I don’t respond to court letters?
If parents do not respond to court paperwork, the court may still deal with the case based on the written evidence provided.
This is why it is very important to open and respond to any letters you receive.
What rights do parents have?
Parents and carers have the right to:
- Understand what is happening and why
- See information being used
- Explain their circumstances
- Seek independent or legal advice
Asking questions or seeking help will not make things worse.
What should I do if I’m worried about my child’s attendance?
You are encouraged to:
- Contact your child’s school as early as possible
- Share any difficulties affecting attendance
- Engage with meetings and agreed plans
- Respond promptly to letters or calls
Early communication can prevent problems from escalating.