The court has the power to make Child Arrangement Orders to determine such matters as who the children should live with and how often they should see the other parent. The court also makes decisions in relation to important issues such as schooling and proposed relocations when parents cannot agree. The child’s welfare is the court’s paramount consideration. 

It is not only parents who can apply to the court – sometimes stepparents, grandparents or others need help to maintain links with a child or sometimes take over a parent’s role bringing up the child when a parent is unable to. We are able to advise members of the wider family, about their rights and the court process which differs if you do not have the automatic right to issue court proceedings.

We can enter into negotiations on your behalf to see if an agreement can be reached if you are unable to resolve matters amicably with the other parent. In most cases parties have to try mediation before court proceedings are issued.

Mediation involves both parties meeting with an independent trained mediator to see if they are able to agree matters. If mediation is not appropriate or is unsuccessful, court proceedings can commence. 

We can advise you of your options and the most appropriate course of action in your personal circumstances.