A Prohibited Steps Order (PSO) is a court order issued by the family court that prohibits a parent or guardian from taking certain actions or making specific decisions regarding a child without the court’s permission. PSOs are typically granted when there is a concern that allowing a particular action or decision could potentially harm the child’s welfare. 

Key points about Prohibited Steps Orders include: 

• Purpose: The primary purpose of a PSO is to protect the welfare and best interests of the child by preventing one parent or guardian from taking actions that may cause harm or disrupt the child’s upbringing. 
• Scope: PSOs can cover a wide range of issues, including preventing a parent from taking the child out of the country without the other parent’s consent, prohibiting changes to the child’s surname, preventing medical procedures or religious practices without consent, or restricting contact with certain individuals. 
• Application Process: Applications for a PSO are made to the family court, usually as part of ongoing family law proceedings or in response to specific concerns raised by one parent or guardian. The court considers the child’s welfare as the paramount consideration when deciding whether to grant the order. 
• Duration: PSOs can be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances of the case. Temporary orders may be granted initially to address immediate concerns, with a further hearing scheduled to determine whether the order should be extended or made permanent. 
• Breach of Order: Breaching the terms of a PSO is a serious matter and can result in legal consequences, including fines, community service, or imprisonment. The court has powers to enforce compliance with the order and may impose penalties for non-compliance. 
• Modification or Variation: PSOs can be modified or varied if circumstances change significantly, such as a parent’s behavior or the child’s welfare needs. Applications to vary PSOs require approval from the court. 
• Legal Representation: It’s advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified family law solicitor when applying for or responding to a PSO application. A solicitor can provide guidance on the legal process, help gather evidence to support your case, and represent your interests in court proceedings.

Overall, Prohibited Steps Orders play a vital role in safeguarding children’s welfare by preventing actions or decisions that may pose a risk to their well-being, ensuring that their best interests are prioritized and protected by the family court.