Arrangements for Children

We need to meet with you so we can understand the problems you are experiencing with the arrangements. We need to appreciate your concerns about any risk to the children or your worries about how the situation is impacting their daily lives, school or their overall well-being.  Every family and child is different so we need to spend sufficient time with you to understand the precise nature of the problem.

Once we have the correct information and have checked the facts with you, we will suggest potential solutions. This can include writing to the other parent, referring you to an appropriate expert,  such as a mediator or family counsellor, or suggesting a suitable parenting app.  We will also make sure you understand your duties, rights and responsibilities as a parent and also the other party’s legal position, as well as the role of any other adults involved where appropriate.  Understanding this can help you to communicate and can give you the confidence to suggest solutions.

Sometimes the only option is to apply to the Court for a Child Arrangements Order.  This might be because you cannot agree with whom your children should live or when or how they should spend time with the other parent.  In some circumstances, you might disagree which school the children should attend or one party might wish to take them to live abroad. Sometimes we will need to act urgently if your child is at risk.  In these situations, a Judge will need to make an Order to resolve the disagreement. If this does happen to you, we will support you with sensible advice and a step-by- step approach throughout the Court process.