Family Lawyers London
Whenever a couple have a child they share the parental responsibility. This doesn’t stop when there is a change in the marital relationship so it is important that the child’s happiness and well being continue to be a priority for both parties.
Some of the most important decisions that you will make during the separation or divorce process are those concerning your children’s future. The end of a relationship is always emotionally stressful, but you need to recognise that your children will also be affected by the split. Decisions need to be made about residency and contact, formerly known as custody and visitation, that are in the best interests of your children.
If you are going through a divorce and there are children involved then our Family Lawyers London office can help you through the process and give you all the advice you need about residency and contact.
As a part of the divorce process a Statement of Arrangements would have been included with the filing of the Divorce Petition if there are children involved in the marriage. This tells the court what arrangements have been made for the children regarding important issues such as residency, contact and education, and the court is unlikely to change any arrangements both parents have agreed to.
In some cases an agreement regarding the care of the children can not be reached, in which case there are a few options available to parents.
Mediation - Instead of, or before going to court, parents might be advised to undergo mediation. A specially trained mediator will look at both sides of the argument and objectively try and guide the matter to an agreement that both parents are happy with.
Court Hearing – A court hearing may be scheduled, bringing both parents together with the aim of trying to resolve any disagreements and establish a fair and workable custody and access arrangement.
CAFCASS – CAFCASS is the court welfare organisation which looks after the interests of children who find themselves involved in situations like divorce and separation. They work with parents and children to resolve issues surrounding residency and contact.
If you are having trouble reaching an agreement when it comes to the future care of your children then you need the best legal advice available. Our Family Lawyers London office will talk through your options and help you to reach a solution.
The majority of parents who separate are able to reach an amicable agreement about residency arrangements and the contact each parent has with their children. But in some cases there are disagreements over residency and contact which just can not be settled.
In some cases no amount of mediation or dialogue will help the parents reach an agreement voluntarily. In situations like these the court has to decide what course of action should be taken, and they will always look to set up arrangements that are in the best interests of the children.
This is really seen as a last resort to protect the welfare of the children concerned, and if parents are able to reach agreement on custody and access, the arrangement is likely to be much more viable in the long term.
If you are considering a divorce and are likely to need assistance with matters regarding your children, our Family Lawyers London office can help you through the process. They have a wide range of services to suit all budgets.