Child Law
When parents cannot agree where a child lives or how they spend time with each parent, a Child Arrangements Order sets it out clearly. Whether you have reached agreement and want it made official, or you need the court to decide, we guide you through it with your child's welfare first.
How we help
A Child Arrangements Order decides who a child lives with and how they spend time with each parent. The court's first concern is always the welfare of the child, and it will look at a set of factors, the welfare checklist, before making any decision. In most cases you will need to attend a mediation information meeting before applying, unless an exemption applies.
Where you and the other parent can agree, we can turn that agreement into a binding consent order without a contested fight. Where you cannot, we prepare your application and represent you through the court process. Choose the service closest to your situation below, or speak to us and we will point you to the right one.
Select the route that matches your situation.
For parents who have agreed the arrangements and want them made into a binding court order by consent.
Learn moreFor parents who cannot agree, where the court is asked to decide the arrangements for a child.
Learn moreFor changing a Child Arrangements Order that is already in place, where circumstances have changed.
Learn moreWhether you have an agreement to formalise, a dispute that needs the court, or an existing order that no longer works, a short conversation makes the next step clear. Tell us your situation and we will explain your options, including whether Legal Aid may be available, with no obligation.
