We provide advice and representation to all members of the family on a full range of issues relating to children. Disputes concerning children can present parents, family members and courts with some of the most challenging decisions of all. The Children Act 1989 is the main legislation which provides the law. Our experienced team of solicitors can help anyone who finds themselves in conflict about children. In situations where there are serious concerns about child’s immediate safety and welfare, we are able to act urgently to provide them with protection through court orders.
Areas of specialism
- Child Arrangements Order - who a child lives with and how much time they spend with the other parent including the type of contact
- Preventing a parent from doing something - prohibited steps order
- Requiring someone to do something - specific issue order
- Legal rights and restricting those rights - parental responsibility
- Children’s name - change of name
It is always best if the parents can agree between themselves. However, a good solicitor will be able to give you impartial advice about where a child should live, visiting arrangements and communication between parents.
Courts work on a principle of non-intervention and only get directly involved where there are clear child protection issues where the parents are unable to agree on any important aspect of their child's upbringing. Our approach is to try to reach an agreement with the minimum of fuss. We regard court proceedings as the last option.
We believe in and practice a constructive, non-confrontational approach to family law, we find that a creative and constructive approach produces excellent results for our clients.
Contact a Family Law Solicitor