Children Matters
Our child law experts have expertise in handling all types of cases involving children, including representing parents and children in difficult disputes.
Our family law team handle cases with sensitivity and discretion, especially where the interest of a child is involved. We endeavour to provide specialist legal advice to help you reach an amicable agreement in relation to contact with the other parent.
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Children Matters Lawyers
When couples have children their needs are always at the heart of every decision they make. However, when a relationship breakdown occurs the impact on the children is a primary cause of concern. Our child law experts have expertise in handling all types of cases involving children, including representing parents and children in difficult disputes. Our family law team handle cases with sensitivity and discretion especially where the interest of a child is involved. We endeavour to provide specialist legal advice to help you reach an amicable agreement in relation to contact with the other parent.
Arrangement for children
The arrangements that best suit your children and you are one of the most contentious issues to resolve during a divorce. Our family law team will ensure they make the process as amicable as possible, which is ultimately in the best interest of the children and the parents. Some of the assistances we provide will include help with agreeing on the following:
• Where your children will live;
• The amount of contact a child will have with each parent; and
• How they will be supported financially.
Child arrangement order
When parents decide to separate, they must also make a decision on the important matter of where the child should stay and how much time they will be required to spend with the other parent. However, this is not always as easy as it is said, as there can be some disagreements with respect to this matter between the parents.
In such circumstances, and before making an application for a court order, a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM) must be arranged. This is not compulsory when one party is the victim of domestic violence within the household or when there are no mediators available to see the parties. The aim of the mediation is to make one final attempt to resolve matters before attending court.
The court’s starting point will always be to aim for children to spend time with both parents unless in doing so would adversely affect the child’s welfare. The family courts take into consideration the following points when making a decision:
• The wishes and feelings of the child, taking into account their age, level of understanding and maturity;
• The child’s physical, emotional and educational needs;
• The likely effect that any change of circumstances will have on the child;
• The child’s age, sex, background and any other characteristics that the court thinks are relevant;
• Any harm that the child may have suffered or is at risk of suffering;
• How capable the parties in the case are of meeting the child’s emotional and physical needs; and
• All of the powers that the court has under the Children Act, which could be used within the proceedings.
Grandparents’ Rights
Grandparents do not have automatic legal rights to see their grandchildren, but they can apply for permission to seek a Child Arrangements Order. We provide legal support to grandparents who wish to maintain relationships with their grandchildren.
Resolving Child Disputes – Your Options
Mediation & Negotiation
We encourage parents to resolve disputes through mediation, which is often quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective than court proceedings.
Court Orders
If an agreement cannot be reached, we can help you apply for legal orders, including:
• Child Arrangements Order – Determines where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent.
• Prohibited Steps Order – Prevents a parent from making a major decision (e.g., taking the child abroad without consent).
• Specific Issue Order – Settles disputes over particular aspects of a child’s upbringing (e.g., school choice).
What the Court Considers in Child Matters
If a court is involved, decisions are based on the child’s best interests, considering:
• The child’s wishes and feelings (depending on their age and maturity).
• Their physical, emotional, and educational needs.
• The capability of each parent to provide for them.
• Any risk of harm to the child.
Need Legal Advice About Your Children?
Whether you’re facing disputes about child custody, contact arrangements, or parental responsibility, our experienced Family Law team is here to help.
Contact us today to discuss your case with confidence.
At Advantage Solicitors, our Family Law department offers professional and compassionate support across a wide range of matters, including divorce, financial settlements, child arrangements, and domestic issues. We aim to resolve disputes effectively while safeguarding your rights and the best interests of your family.
How Can We Help You?
We aim to resolve disputes effectively while safeguarding your rights and the best interests of your family. With a clear understanding of the sensitivity involved, our family lawyers are here to provide tailored advice and practical legal solutions.