Medical Treatment of Children and the Law

This book provides a rigorous analysis of the legal framework surrounding the medical treatment of children, particularly in high-profile cases such as Charlie Gard, Alfie Evans, and Tafida Raqeeb. It examines why the state may intervene in parental decision-making and argues for a reframed legal approach that balances parental responsibility, professional duties, and public interest in child welfare. The text challenges the narrow focus on “best interests” disputes, emphasizing that state involvement is justified by broader obligations to protect children and ensure their welfare within the context of family relationships. It situates these principles within historical and contemporary social, legal, and political contexts, offering critical insight into the evolving responsibilities of parents, professionals, and the courts.

Key Features:

• Critical evaluation of over forty years of case law on children’s medical treatment
• Analysis of the balance between parental rights, professional duties, and public responsibilities
• Reframing of legal principles to better protect child welfare while respecting family relationships
• Discussion of how societal, legal, and political changes influence judicial decision-making
• Relevant for academics, students, and practitioners in Medical Law, Family Law, Healthcare Law, Social Work, Medicine, Nursing, and Bioethics
• Offers practical insight into the reasoning behind state intervention in pediatric medical decisions