Child Arrangements

When parents separate, deciding arrangements for a child`s accommodation and contact is crucial. In England and Wales, this issue is not automatically addressed in divorce proceedings, so it is essential to establish such an arrangement by mutual agreement or through the Family Court.

Following a separation, parents must prioritise their children’s safety and well-being. Ideally, both parents should be involved in their children’s lives unless abusive behaviour is present. However, emotions can run high at such times, making communication challenging. It may be necessary to explore various approaches to navigate these difficulties successfully.

At Laceys, we encourage a non-confrontational approach when dealing with issues relating to children. However, if parents cannot agree arrangements, we will assist in advising upon the remedies which may be available to you and for the benefit of your children. This will help you to achieve a more secure future for you and your family.

Child Arrangement Order

A Child Arrangement Order replaces “Residence Orders” and “Contact Orders” as a single, combined Order and is used to ensure that the child’s living arrangements are made in their best interests.

The order can stipulate the following;

• Where and with whom the child lives
• When and how much time they spend with the non-custodial parent
• Any conditions that may apply to those living arrangements or provisions for contact with the other parent

Specific Issue order

 A Specific Issue Order is used to resolve any issues that arise in connection with any aspect of Parental Responsibility for a child’s upbringing. For example:

• What a child’s surname should be after a divorce
• Which school the child should go to
• What medical treatment the child should receive
• How religion should be included in the child/children’s upbringing
• Whether the parent with care can take the child to live abroad

Prohibited Steps Order

A Prohibited Steps Order is used to prevent either parent from exercising any aspect of their parental responsibility for their children when this is opposed by the other parent. For example;

• Removing a child from the UK
• Relocating with the child within the UK
• Changing a child’s surname
• Moving a child to a different school
• Receiving or withholding medical treatment

Public funding/legal aid is no longer freely available to deal with Private Law Children Issues in Court, in the absence of proof of domestic abuse. However Laceys will always strive to advise you as to the most cost-efficient way of dealing with any child arrangements (such as mediation) if such funding to secure professional representation in child arrangements proceedings is not available to you.

For further information regarding our services in relation to Child Arrangements, please contact our team today.