CHILD ARRANGEMENTS

Before 1989 parents argued over who had 'custody' and 'access' to their children.

Nowadays the Family Court makes Child Arrangements Orders determining who a child will live with, whether they will spend time with (have contact with) the other parent and specific issues relating to the child's welfare.

The Courts have powers to make Child Arrangements Orders in respect of your children that could have life changing consequences for you and your children.

They can also send you to prison for breaching these Orders.

You should remember that if you are involved in Children Act proceedings the Court can direct CAFCASS and Social Services to become involved in your family life and that particular attention these days is paid to any history of domestic abuse within the family including physical, emotional and financial abuse or controlling and coercive behaviour that may impact on a parent's ability to parent safely in the future.

I can give you advice on your rights and responsibilities, try and resolve the dispute by negotiated agreement and represent you in court and can help you for as much or as little as you need.

Once you have had advice you can do much of the 'groundwork' yourself.

To apply for a Child Arrangements Order you will need to complete a Form C100 and possibly a C1A

You will then (almost certainly) need to complete a Witness Statement.

If you need to bring Enforcement Proceedings you may need to complete a Form C79

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