Not always. If you can agree arrangements with the other parent, you may not need a court order. However, if disagreements arise, a Child Arrangements Order can provide clarity and enforceability in the event of non-compliance.
See our article on Divorcing with Kids >A Child Arrangements Order sets out where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent (including overnight stays, holidays and special occasions), and can include communication via phone or video call.
Yes. If you are concerned about abduction or unauthorised travel, you can apply for a Prohibited Steps Order to prevent the child from being taken out of the country.
Parental Responsibility gives legal rights and responsibilities for a child’s upbringing. Mothers automatically have Parental Responsibility, and fathers do too, provided they are named on the birth certificate (after 2003) or married to the child’s mother. Others can apply for Parental Responsibility through the court.
You can apply for a Specific Issue Order to ask the court to decide on such issues. At Zeus Family Law, our expert solicitors help you present a clear, child-focused case supported by the correct evidence.
Under the Children Act 1989, the child’s welfare is always the court’s paramount consideration. Factors include their needs, safety, emotional wellbeing, and wishes (depending on the child’s age and maturity).
Yes, in most cases you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before making an application to the court. However, there are exceptions to this requirement, including urgent cases, or those involving domestic abuse.
Yes, though they usually need permission from the court before applying for a Child Arrangements Order. Courts are now increasingly supportive of meaningful grandparent contact when it benefits the child.
See our article on Grandparents Rights in the UK >The court may take the child’s wishes and feelings into consideration, depending upon their age and maturity. However, the court will also look at why the child is refusing contact and whether any pressure or alienation is involved.
See our article on Parental Alienation in UK Family Law >Typically, a Child Arrangement Order will last until the child turns 16 years old (or 18 years old in exceptional cases). However, it can be reviewed if circumstances change significantly.
