Now in its fourth edition, this well-established core textbook looks at social work law in practice, focusing on key areas such as human rights, mental health, services to children and families, safeguarding, court work, youth justice and community care. Now fully revised to include information on the Mental Health Act 2007, extensions to the Mental Capacity Act 2005, new guidance on implementation of the Children Act 1989 and care proceedings, as well as changes to the tribunal system, this text is essential reading for all social work students.