Child Arrangement and Contact

Child Arrangements and Contact

Our experienced family department help clients resolve any contested issues in relation to children.

When you have children and separate from your partner, you need to make certain arrangements how you will each care for them in the future.

It is usually best for all concerned if parents can reach an agreement regarding the care of their children. We recognise however, that this is not always possible. Our skilled and sympathetic team are able to support and assist you throughout the whole process of robust negotiations, preparation of legal documents and the Court procedure, if required. We pride ourselves on our reputation for achieving positive and successful outcomes for our Clients.

What is a Child Arrangements Order

A child arrangement order is a court order that outlines the details and arrangements for your children after divorce or separation. This type of order is required when you and your ex-partner cannot agree the arrangements between yourselves.

 Issues that may be considered in a child arrangement order are with whom and where the children are to live and how often they will see each parent. These used to be known as residence, access contact orders.

Arrangements for children are often difficult, but Chris Stevenson Solicitors can help guide you through the whole process.

Types of Child Orders

Parental Responsibility Order

Parental responsibility allows a parent to be involved in decision making relating to a child’s upbringing, such as what school the child should attend and what medical treatment the child should receive.

It is only the Mother who acquires parental responsibility at the point of birth. A Father will acquire parental responsibility if they are married to the child’s mother, or if their name is on the birth certificate.

If you are unsure as to whether you have legal parental responsibility for a child, our team can assist in advising you as to how this may be obtained.

Child Arrangements Order

This order sets out with whom the child lives with and what time they spend with each parent.

Specific Issue Order

This order relates to a specific issue that you cannot agree upon, such as which school the child is to attend, should the child’s name be changed or whether the child can be removed from UK jurisdiction. For example, a parents desire to move to another area of the country or overseas. 

Prohibited Steps Order

This is an order that will prevent one parent from doing something such as changing a child’s school or removing the child from UK jurisdiction, without the court’s approval.

How can Chris Stevenson Solicitors help you?

At Chris Stevenson Solicitors, we understand that the process relating to child arrangements and contact can be stressful. We will fully advise, support and assist you throughout your case in order to secure a positive outcome for you and your children. If you would like more information concerning child arrangements and contact, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly family team on 01302 341243 or enquiries@chris-stevenson.co.uk.