Children Proceedings

We are mindful that any separation, no matter how amicable, will inevitably have an impact upon the children of the family. Living arrangements for the children are often the most sensitive and difficult issue to navigate following divorce or separation.

As members of Resolution, we endeavour to resolve issues between separated parents as amicably as possible. If you are able to reach an agreement independently of the Court, then our expert team can prepare Parenting Agreements, to ensure that all parents have a clearly written record of the agreed arrangements.

When parents cannot agree arrangements for the children, then Court intervention may be necessary. We will prepare and file an application for a Child Arrangements Order on your behalf and support you throughout the Court process. 

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order that sets out who is responsible for the care of a child. It will state who the children live with, where they live. when and how the children will see both parents. The process can include several hearings and once in place, the order is legally binding and usually lasts until the child is 18 years old. 

Our lawyers have extensive experience in handling complex children proceedings, including matters involving domestic violence, relocation both within and outside the UK and contact for Grandparents. We will handle your case with care, attention and competence.

When making an application to the Court, the primary focus is always the interest and wellbeing of the children. In addition to applications for Child Arrangement’s Orders, we have expertise in a variety of applications, including;

• Prohibited Steps Orders – These orders prevent a child’s parents, grandparents or any other named person from taking certain actions. This could include removing the child from your care or from their school, relocating with the child, taking a child abroad or preventing a child receiving medical treatment.
• Specific Issues Orders – These Orders address specific aspects of a child’s upbringing or wellbeing. Such as their schooling, religion, change of name and relocation whether international or within the UK.
• Orders for Parental Responsibility and Declaration of Parentage– If you have not been named on the child’s birth certificate, these orders establish legal rights and responsibilities for a parent.
• Special Guardianship Orders – These orders place a child in long term care with someone other than their parents, providing permanence for children for whom adoption or fostering is not the best option.

Having professional advice and representation will ensure that you have someone on your side who knows the law and understands the Court process. We will guide you through this process to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your child.

Please contact a member of our Family Law team today to arrange your free initial consultation.

We have offices in Bath, Chippenham, Cheltenham, Swindon, Salisbury and Newbury.