Child Arrangements
Child Arrangements Orders, Specific Issue and Prohibited Steps.
When parents separate, the arrangements for their children are often the most emotionally significant and contested aspect of the separation. Where parents cannot agree on arrangements for their children, the court can make a Child Arrangements Order setting out with whom the child will live and with whom they will spend time. BW Solicitors provides sensitive, expert advice on all aspects of child arrangements to parents across Ilford and London.
The Welfare of the Child
In all proceedings relating to children, the welfare of the child is the court's paramount consideration. The court applies a welfare checklist which includes the wishes and feelings of the child (considered in light of their age and understanding), their physical, emotional and educational needs, the likely effect of any change in circumstances, any harm they have suffered or are at risk of suffering, and the capability of each parent to meet those needs. Our solicitors will ensure that your child's best interests are at the forefront of every application.
- Child Arrangements Orders — who the child lives with and spends time with
- Prohibited Steps Orders — preventing a parent from taking specified steps without consent
- Specific Issue Orders — resolving specific disputes, such as schooling or medical treatment
- Applications to vary or discharge existing orders
- Urgent applications where there is a risk of harm or abduction
Mediation and the MIAM Requirement
Before making an application to the court in most private law children cases, you are required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) with a qualified mediator. The mediator will explain the mediation process and assess whether it is suitable for your case. Mediation is not compulsory, but the court will expect to see that it has been considered. There are exemptions — for example, in cases involving domestic abuse. Our solicitors will advise you on whether you need to attend a MIAM and whether any exemptions apply.
Internal and International Relocation
If one parent wishes to move to a different part of the UK, or to take the children to live abroad, this can give rise to significant legal disputes. A parent wishing to relocate internationally with the children requires either the written consent of all those with parental responsibility or a court order permitting the move. Unauthorised removal of a child from the UK can constitute child abduction. Our solicitors have experience in both internal relocation and international relocation cases.
- Applications for permission to relocate within the UK
- Applications for permission to relocate internationally
- Opposing relocation applications
- Advice on the Hague Convention on international child abduction
- Urgent applications to prevent removal or secure return
Why Choose BW Solicitors?
Our family law team handles child arrangements cases with the sensitivity and expertise they demand. We always seek to resolve matters in the most constructive way possible, but where litigation is necessary to protect your children's interests, we will represent you with full determination. We serve clients across Ilford, East London and Greater London.