Arranging child access can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of separation or divorce. At The Law Firm Group, our experienced solicitors understand the importance of protecting the best interests of your children while ensuring that your rights as a parent are respected. We offer practical, expert legal advice to guide you through every step of the child access process, providing clarity, reassurance, and support during what can often feel like an overwhelming time.
Understanding Child Access in the UK
In the UK, “child access” – often referred to as “contact” – concerns the arrangements for a child to spend time with the parent or family member they do not live with on a day-to-day basis. Whether called contact, visitation, or access, these arrangements are designed to promote the child’s welfare and maintain meaningful relationships with both parents.
The Law Firm Group specialises in helping parents and family members navigate the complexities of child access, always keeping the child’s wellbeing as the central priority. Our solicitors have a wealth of experience in resolving disputes amicably where possible, and robustly representing our clients’ interests when necessary.
When You Might Need Expert Legal Advice on Child Access
Clients often come to us for help with child access following:
- Divorce or separation, where parents cannot agree on contact arrangements
- Concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing during contact
- Disputes with grandparents or other relatives seeking contact
- Relocation issues, such as a parent wishing to move away with the child
- Changes in circumstances that require an existing arrangement to be reviewed
Whether you are seeking to establish, enforce, or vary child access arrangements, The Law Firm Group provides clear, practical legal solutions tailored to your family’s unique needs.
The Child Access Legal Process Explained
Initial Consultation and Assessment
Our process begins with a confidential initial consultation, in which one of our specialist child access solicitors will listen carefully to your situation and objectives. We will assess your options, explain your legal rights and responsibilities, and outline the best way forward. At this stage, we will also discuss likely costs and timescales, so you have full transparency from the outset.
Negotiation and Agreement
In many cases, child access disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation. Our solicitors are skilled negotiators, aiming to reach agreement between parties wherever possible without the need for court proceedings. We will draft clear, workable agreements to set out contact arrangements, providing certainty and reducing the likelihood of future disputes.
Applying to the Family Court
If negotiations fail or are not appropriate, we can assist you in making an application to the Family Court for a Child Arrangements Order. The court’s paramount concern is always the child’s welfare. Our expert solicitors will prepare your case thoroughly, represent you at hearings, and ensure your voice is heard throughout the process. We also advise on enforcing or varying existing orders if circumstances change.
Common Issues and How We Help
Child access cases can involve a range of challenges, including:
- Communication breakdown between parents
- Concerns about the child’s safety or allegations of harm
- One parent obstructing contact or relocating without consent
- Complex family dynamics or blended families
The Law Firm Group’s solicitors provide sensitive yet robust advice and representation, always striving to minimise conflict and prioritise the child’s needs. We work with you to find practical solutions and, where necessary, help you access additional support such as family mediation or safeguarding services.
Why Choose The Law Firm Group for Child Access Matters?
Our dedicated team of UK solicitors has extensive experience in all areas of family law, including complex child access cases. When you instruct The Law Firm Group, you benefit from:
- Expert legal advice from specialist child law solicitors
- Clarity and transparency on costs, timescales, and process
- Personalised support, tailored to your family’s circumstances
- Efficient, proactive service designed to minimise stress and delays
- Ongoing guidance even after your case concludes, should further issues arise
We are committed to making high-quality legal services accessible and understandable. Our solicitors will keep you informed at every stage, ensuring you always know where you stand and what to expect next.
What to Expect When Working with The Law Firm Group
Getting Started
The first step is to arrange an initial consultation with one of our child access solicitors. During this meeting, we will listen to your concerns, review any relevant documents (such as previous court orders or correspondence), and provide clear advice on your rights and options.
Next Steps
Depending on your circumstances, we may recommend negotiation, mediation, or, if necessary, court proceedings. We will outline a tailored strategy and keep you informed of progress at every stage. Our team will handle all legal paperwork, liaise with other parties or their solicitors, and represent you robustly in any discussions or hearings.
Ongoing Support
Our commitment to your family does not end when your immediate issue is resolved. We offer ongoing advice and support, helping you adapt arrangements if your circumstances change in the future. With The Law Firm Group, you have a trusted partner for all your family law needs.
Contact The Law Firm Group for Specialist Child Access Advice
Arranging child access can feel daunting, but you do not have to face it alone. The Law Firm Group’s experienced solicitors are here to provide reassurance, practical solutions, and expert legal advice every step of the way. With our help, you can achieve clarity, protect your child’s best interests, and move forward with confidence.
