Children within family law

Relationship breakdowns are often more difficult and more upsetting where there are children to consider. Often the children do not understand why their parents must live apart and have difficulties themselves coping with the changes.

Although you and your partner may be divorcing or separating, this does not end your role as a parent.

That’s why our team of family solicitors recognises the importance of helping you and your family. Our family solicitors deal with issues surrounding children on a regular basis, so we have the experience to advise you and represent you and your case at court.

We would always recommend advice at an early stage and can take you through the options available to assist in resolving these issues in the interests and the welfare of your children.

Many parents find it difficult to agree arrangements for the children such as where they should live & when they should see the other parent. We are able to help you agree these arrangements whilst always considering what is in the children’s best interests.

Options include mediation and negotiation; trying to reach agreement with/between you and your partner. However, where agreement cannot be reached you can apply to the court to make an order.

The main orders concerning children that can be made by court are:

• residence orders (where should a child live)
• contact orders (the level of contact that a person should have with a child)
• prohibited steps orders (orders preventing something, such as removing a child to live elsewhere in England or abroad)
• specific issue orders (such as change of names or what school a child should go to)