Children

I will work with you to advise how the court may decide on important matters as your child’s upbringing or administration of your child’s property.

According to The Children Act, when the court is considering whether or not to make an order in relation to a child, it must not make the order unless it considers that doing so would be better for the child than making no order at all.  This is known as the ‘no order principle’.

I will also talk you through the “no delay principle” – where there is an assumption that any delay in getting a decision is likely to harm the child’s welfare.

In both these issues, I will advise you on how the court decides what is in the child’s best interests. I will go through the seven factors the court must consider deciding what will best serve your child’s welfare.

Cafcass is the Children Family Court Advisory and Support Service. An officer from Cafcass will prepare a report for the court to help it make an informed decision about your child’s welfare.

I will advise you what to expect and how to prepare for your interview with Cafcass.  The Cafcass officer will want to see evidence of your parenting skills.

I have successfully assisted clients in applications for P.R where they are the natural father but not named on the birth certificate. I can help you complete any necessary court application at very reasonable rates and even help you with representation at the hearing.

I help you prepare and follow the Child Arrangements Programme (CAP) which came into force in 2014. In the 1st Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA) the court has to consider five issues before it moves to consider the substance of the dispute. I will help you prepare answers, decide whether you should prepare a position statement and advise on what guidelines to follow.

I will assist you every step of the way including help on fact-finding, final hearings expert evidence and any appeal.

These are orders that prohibited a parent from doing something they would otherwise be entitled to do. For example, one parent taking a child abroad, applying for a passport or attending the child’s school for an event.

These are orders that resolve an issue between parents in respect of an issue concerning their child. Such orders can deal with medical matters, schooling, passports and so on.

I am an expert in dealing with these applications, which are often difficult and complex.

“Residency” is the new term for what used to be called “custody battles”.

Many separating parents now manage to resolve matters for the benefit of all involved by agreeing joint residency orders.

However, should you wish to relocate to another country with your child or children, you may face opposition from the other natural parent.

In these cases, I can help you prepare your case whether you are applying for or defending such an application. There are multiple factors to consider and given the importance of any final decision, it is wise to get our professional help. Often decisions are borderline, and professional advice can nudge your case over the edge.