When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important – and sometimes most challenging – issues to resolve is where their children will live and how time will be shared. A Child Arrangement Order is a legal solution designed to provide clarity and structure in these situations, always keeping the child’s best interests at the forefront. At The Law Firm Group, our experienced solicitors provide expert legal advice and support to guide families through the complexities of child arrangements, ensuring that you, and your children, are protected and supported every step of the way.
What is a Child Arrangement Order?
A Child Arrangement Order is a court order that sets out with whom a child should live, spend time, or have contact. This legal order replaced the previous residence and contact orders in the UK. It can cover a variety of arrangements, from specifying where a child’s main home will be, to setting out detailed schedules for visits, holidays, and communication between the child and each parent or other significant adults.
Securing a Child Arrangement Order is often necessary when parents cannot agree on the arrangements themselves, or when there are concerns about a child’s welfare. The Law Firm Group’s specialist solicitors are here to help you understand your options and achieve a resolution that is in your child’s best interests.
When Might You Need a Child Arrangement Order?
There are many situations where specialist legal advice on child arrangements becomes essential. Typical scenarios include:
- Following a separation or divorce, when parents cannot agree on where a child should live or how contact should be managed.
- Concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing with one parent.
- Disputes involving grandparents or other relatives wishing to have contact with a child.
- Changes in circumstances, such as a parent relocating.
At The Law Firm Group, our UK solicitors have extensive experience supporting clients through these sensitive and often stressful situations, offering clear guidance and robust representation.
The Legal Process: What to Expect
Initial Legal Advice and Mediation
Before making an application to the court, parents are typically encouraged to try and reach agreement through discussion or family mediation. Our solicitors can provide early legal advice, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities and supporting you in any mediation process. If agreement cannot be reached, you may need to apply to the Family Court for a Child Arrangement Order.
Applying for a Child Arrangement Order
The process usually begins with an application to the court, which can be made by parents, guardians, or other individuals with a significant connection to the child. The Law Firm Group will guide you through preparing the necessary documentation, ensuring your application is comprehensive and correctly presented.
Once the application is submitted, the court will often require parties to attend a First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA). At this stage, the judge may encourage further negotiation or set out the next steps, which could include gathering additional evidence or appointing CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) to report on the child’s welfare.
Hearings and Final Order
If issues remain unresolved, the court may hold further hearings, where each party can present their case. The Law Firm Group’s family law solicitors are skilled at both negotiation and advocacy, ensuring your voice is heard while always keeping the child’s welfare at the centre of proceedings.
Ultimately, the court will make a decision and issue a Child Arrangement Order that is legally binding on all parties.
Common Issues and How We Help
Disputes over child arrangements can be emotionally charged and complex. Common challenges include communication breakdowns between parents, concerns about safeguarding, and delays in the legal process. Our solicitors provide practical, empathetic advice and robust representation, helping to de-escalate conflict and keep proceedings focused on what is best for your child.
We are experienced in handling cases involving allegations of domestic abuse, parental alienation, or international relocation, ensuring that even the most difficult circumstances are managed with sensitivity and professionalism.
Why Choose The Law Firm Group?
At The Law Firm Group, we believe that every family deserves clarity, protection, and peace of mind during times of change. Our legal services are designed to be accessible and transparent, with clear explanations of your options and straightforward costs so you always know where you stand.
Our team of specialist solicitors offers:
- Expert legal advice tailored to your unique family situation
- Efficient and practical solutions to minimise stress and delays
- Ongoing support at every stage, from initial consultation to post-order queries
- Transparent and competitive pricing
We work in partnership with you, listening to your concerns and guiding you towards the best possible outcome for your child.
Getting Started with The Law Firm Group
Starting the process is simple. Contact The Law Firm Group to arrange an initial consultation with one of our family law solicitors. During this meeting, we will listen to your circumstances, review any relevant documents, and provide clear advice on your legal options and likely next steps.
Once you decide to proceed, we will support you in preparing your application, gathering evidence, and representing your interests in any negotiations or court hearings. We remain by your side throughout, ensuring you are informed, supported, and empowered at every stage of the process.
Clarity and Peace of Mind for Your Family
Arrangements for your children are too important to be left to uncertainty or unresolved conflict. With The Law Firm Group’s expert legal advice and support, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your child’s welfare is protected and your interests are represented by experienced and approachable UK solicitors.
