Child Arrangements & Parental Disputes

Resolving child arrangement disputes

After separation, it’s hoped parents can agree on where their child will live and how much time they spend with each parent. This might involve equal time or a schedule that varies during term time and holidays. However, reaching an agreement isn’t always easy. Challenges can include living far apart, disagreements about schooling, or differing views on what’s reasonable for contact. New relationships can also create tension. Our team provides practical advice and support to help you navigate these issues and prioritise your child’s wellbeing.

How we can help

When parents cannot agree on important decisions, it can create stress and uncertainty. The child’s welfare should always come first, and we’re here to help you resolve these challenges. We can assist with:

• Being denied contact with your children or not getting enough time with them.
• Arranging for your children to live equally with both parents.
• Preventing a parent from changing your child’s name without consent.
• Stopping a parent from changing your child’s school without agreement.
• Handling relocation issues, whether within the UK or abroad.
• Acting if you suspect a parent may not return your child after contact.

Welfare checklist

The court will also consider the following criteria before making any decisions (known as the welfare checklist):

• (a) the wishes and feelings of the child concerned (looking at their age and understanding);
• (b)  physical, emotional and educational needs;
• (c) the likely effect of any change in the circumstances;
• (d) age, sex, background and any characteristics which the court considers relevant;
• (e) any harm which they have suffered or are at risk of suffering;
• (f) how capable are each parent, and any other person in relation to whom the court considers the question to be relevant, of meeting their needs;
• (g) the range of powers available to the court