What can be learnt from the first FGM case?

Table of contents

• Original news
• What is the significance of this decision?
• What were the challenges in this case in terms of establishing whether the child had been subjected to FGM?
• How did the court approach the question of whether FGM constituted serious harm under ChA 1989, s 31(2)?
• What are the practical implications of this decision?
• How does this case build on the developing case law around FGM and the role of local authorities?

Article summary

Family analysis: What impact will the decision in the first case relating to female genital mutilation (FGM) have on future cases? Felicity Gerry QC, a human rights barrister at 36 Bedford Row specialising in FGM law and child protection issues, discusses the case and the importance of expert evidence.