When parents separate, questions about where children will live and how much time they will spend with each parent are often the most difficult and emotional to resolve. These decisions can have a lasting impact on a child’s sense of stability and wellbeing.
Our child arrangements solicitors in London advise on living arrangements, contact disputes and court applications, helping parents reach safe, practical solutions that prioritise their child’s needs.
We act for clients across London and the South East, including Walthamstow, East London and Central London. Whether you are at the early stages of separation, dealing with urgent concerns about contact, or already involved in court proceedings, we provide clear guidance and steady support throughout.
Every family is different, and arrangements should reflect what is right for your child.
Who We Help
We represent a wide range of parents and carers in child arrangements matters, including:
- Mothers, fathers and step-parents who cannot agree how a child’s time should be divided
- Parents where there has been domestic abuse, coercive or controlling behaviour
- LGBTQ+ parents, including same-sex couples, trans and non-binary individuals, and families formed through surrogacy, donor conception and co-parenting
- Families with an international element, including relocation or concerns about a child being taken out of the UK without consent
We understand that concerns about your child’s wellbeing can feel overwhelming. Our role is to provide clear, practical advice and support so you can make decisions that protect your child and provide stability for the future.
Types of Orders
Child Arrangements Order – where your child lives and spend time with each parent
A Child Arrangements Order sets out where a child will live and how they will spend time with each parent or other important people in their life. We advise parents across London on applying for child arrangements orders where agreement cannot be reached.
The court’s priority is always the welfare of the child, focusing on arrangements that provide stability, consistency and support. Orders may include structured contact such as weekends, holidays and special occasions, or more flexible shared care arrangements where appropriate.
Specific Issue Order
Where parents cannot agree on a particular issue, a Specific Issue Order may be required.
Common examples include:
- Choice of school
- Medical treatment
- Permission for holidays abroad
We help you present a clear and focused case so that the court can determine what is in your child’s best interests.
Prohibited Steps Order
A Prohibited Steps Order prevents certain actions without court permission. This is often used where there are concerns about:
- A child being taken abroad without consent
- Sudden changes to living arrangements
- Decisions that may put the child at risk
If you are concerned about your child’s safety, we can advise on making an urgent application.
Parental Responsibility
Parental responsibility refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a parent has in relation to a child, including decisions about:
- Education
- Medical treatment
- Religious upbringing
- General welfare
While mothers automatically have parental responsibility, others, including unmarried fathers and step-parents, may need to formalise their position through agreement or court order.
Guardianship and Special Guardianship Orders
These orders provide longer-term arrangements where a child cannot live with their parents.
- Guardianship Orders appoint someone to care for a child if both parents are unable to do so
- Special Guardianship Orders provide a more permanent arrangement while maintaining a legal link with the parents
We guide families through what can be a complex but important process.
Child Arrangements Where There Has Been Domestic Abuse
Where there has been domestic abuse or coercive control, decisions about child arrangements must be handled with care and sensitivity.
The court’s primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of both the child and the non-abusive parent. We understand how difficult these situations can be and provide clear, supportive advice to help you navigate them.
Depending on the circumstances, arrangements may include:
- Supervised contact
- Supported or indirect contact (for example by video or letters)
- Restrictions on contact where necessary for safety
We will help ensure that any arrangements properly reflect the risks and prioritise your child’s wellbeing.
FAQs
What is a Child Arrangements Order?
A Child Arrangements Order sets out where a child lives and how they spend time with each parent or other individuals. It replaces the previous legal terms “custody” and “access”.
Do I have to go to mediation before applying to court?
In most cases, you will need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), unless an exemption applies such as domestic abuse or urgency.
Can I stop my child being taken abroad?
Yes. You may be able to apply for a Prohibited Steps Order if you are concerned your child may be removed from the UK without your consent.
How does domestic abuse affect child arrangements?
The court will carefully consider the impact of abuse on the child and the parent. Contact may be supervised, limited or not appropriate depending on the circumstances.
Talk to a Child Arrangements Solicitor in London
If you need advice on child arrangements, contact our London team to discuss your situation in confidence. We will help you understand your options and work towards arrangements that support your child’s wellbeing and provide long-term stability.
Call 020 8175 5000 or contact us to book a free 30-minute consultation with a specialist child arrangements solicitor in London.
Important
This page contains general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice. The law may change and its application will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. You should seek tailored advice from a qualified solicitor.