Disputes about children can be one of the most difficult parts of a family separation. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or another family member, our experienced family law solicitors in London can provide specialist legal advice on disputes about child arrangements, including contact and residence. We support families across London and beyond, helping them resolve sensitive matters constructively.
Specialist child arrangement order solicitors
We understand this can be a stressful process. Our family team aims to make it as stress-free as possible, helping you make informed decisions for your family's future.
What are child arrangement disputes?
After a relationship breakdown, separated parents can sometimes disagree on how the arrangements for the children should work. Such disputes can be about where a child lives, how much time they spend time with the other parent, or specific issues like which school they attend, or if you can take a child abroad for school holidays.
A Child Arrangements Order is a court order that sets out these details. It can cover:
- Direct face-to-face contact
- Overnight contact
- Supervised or supported contact (if there are safety concerns or issues like domestic abuse)
- Indirect contact (letters, phone, or video calls)
As a parent, grandparent, or even one of the step-parents, you may need to seek legal advice where child contact is being restricted, or communication has broken down with your ex-partner. Our child arrangement dispute lawyers will explain your legal rights and the options available to you.
How can our child arrangement solicitors help?
The goal for most parents is to reduce conflict and find a solution that works for everyone. There are three main ways our expert family lawyers can help resolve a child arrangement dispute:
- Solicitor-led negotiation: our experienced solicitors can help you reach an agreement through discussion and by creating a parenting plan.
- Family mediation: this involves an independent third party helping you and your former partner reach a resolution. We can refer you to local services and provide legal support throughout the entire process. In some cases, legal aid may be available for mediation.
- Court proceedings: if an agreement cannot be reached, we can help you with a child arrangements order application to the Family Court. The court process is a last resort, but our legal representation will guide you through every step, including any court hearing.
We can also provide advice on related matters like the Child Maintenance Service for financial provision or applications concerning a child's surname or proposed medical treatment.
The court process explained
If you need to go to court, our solicitors will manage the legal process for you. This includes preparing court forms, dealing with CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service), and representing you at hearings. The court will consider many factors, including the child's age, the child's wishes, and any other relevant characteristics, before making a legally binding decision having regard to the child’s welfare as the paramount consideration.
The timescale for the full process can be up to about twelve months, but many cases are resolved much faster. The legal fees in respect of such proceedings can vary and we will always provide a clear estimate.
Why choose Grant Saw Solicitors?
- We are specialist child arrangement dispute lawyers with a wealth of experience.
- We offer practical, child-focused advice on all sorts of child maintenance arrangements.
- We will take a supportive approach
- Our fees are transparent, and we are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Your first consultation of up to one hour with our solicitors is for a fixed fee of £150 + VAT. After assessing your situation, we will provide a clear estimate of future costs.
We have built a reputation as trusted advisers to families, on various issues from relationship breakdown.
Contact our London child law solicitors
For expert advice on child arrangements, contact, or residence, get in touch with our specialist team today.
Email family@grantsaw.co.uk or contact the team on 020 8858 6971. We are currently offering a free, initial telephone consultation. Alternatively, leave your details here and a member of the team will contact you at a time that suits you.
