Split into three parts – statutes, statutory instruments and practice guidance – the Children Act Handbook is an essential work for any practitioner involved with children proceedings. It covers all private and public law applications and contains the governing sections of the relevant statutes.

It is very useful for any advocate at court who knows that an application needs to be made, but is unsure under which section of the act they can make it.

Author: Lord Justice McFarlane

£60, Bloomsbury Professional

Particularly useful points are contained within the statutory instruments section, especially with regard to the Family Procedure Rules, as there is clear guidance regarding the powers of the courts to make such orders.

This book is a must for any practitioner and should be kept by your side at all times.

Izzy Jaques is a solicitor at Parrott & Coales, and David Pickup a partner at Pickup & Scott