Child Arrangements Solicitors

Expert Advice on Child Arrangements, Parental Responsibility and Resolving Disputes Involving Children

When parents separate, one of the most important decisions to resolve is how arrangements for their children will work moving forward. While many families are able to reach agreements themselves, disagreements can sometimes arise regarding where a child lives, who they spend time with and important decisions affecting their upbringing.

At Eaton Smith Solicitors, we provide practical, child-focused legal advice to help parents resolve child arrangement issues as constructively and effectively as possible. We understand that disputes involving children can be emotional and stressful, which is why we focus on achieving solutions that prioritise a child's welfare whilst protecting your rights as a parent.

Whether you need advice regarding living arrangements, contact arrangements, parental responsibility, relocation, schooling disputes or court applications, our experienced Family Law team is here to help.

We offer a free 30-minute initial consultation, giving you the opportunity to discuss your circumstances with an experienced member of our team and understand your legal options.

Call 01484 821300 to arrange your free consultation.

How We Can Help

Our Family Law team advises on a wide range of matters relating to children, including:

Child Arrangements Orders

Advice and representation where decisions need to be made about who a child lives with and spends time with.

Contact Arrangements

Helping parents establish, maintain or review arrangements for spending time with their children.

Parental Responsibility

Advice on parental rights, responsibilities and decision-making regarding a child's upbringing.

Relocation Disputes

Guidance where one parent wishes to relocate with a child, either within the UK or abroad.

School and Education Disputes

Legal advice when parents cannot agree on issues relating to education and schooling.

Specific Issue Orders

Assistance where the court is required to make a decision about a particular aspect of a child's upbringing.

Prohibited Steps Orders

Advice where urgent action is needed to prevent a parent or another individual from taking certain actions relating to a child.

Enforcement of Child Arrangements Orders

Support where agreed arrangements or court orders are not being complied with.

Common Child Arrangement Issues

Many parents seek legal advice because they are unsure of their rights or how arrangements should work after separation.

We regularly advise on issues such as:

• Where a child should live
• How much time a child should spend with each parent
• Communication between parents and children
• Holiday and travel arrangements
• Schooling and education decisions
• Medical treatment decisions
• Relocation disputes
• Enforcement of existing court orders

Our aim is always to help parents reach practical and sustainable arrangements that are in the best interests of their children.

Why Choose Eaton Smith Solicitors?

Experienced Family Law Specialists

Our Family Law team has extensive experience advising parents and families on a wide range of child-related matters, These include solicitors who are on the Family Law Panel, Children Panel, members of Resolution and a High Court Advocate.

Child-Focused Approach

We understand that disputes involving children require careful handling. Our advice is always focused on achieving the best outcome for the child involved.

Clear and Practical Advice

We explain complex legal issues in straightforward language, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

Trusted Local Firm

Eaton Smith Solicitors has supported families across Huddersfield and West Yorkshire for many years, providing trusted legal advice when it matters most.

Free 30-Minute Consultation

We offer a free initial consultation to help you understand your position and the options available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Child Arrangements Order?

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order that decides who a child will live with, spend time with or otherwise have contact with when parents cannot reach an agreement.

Can my ex-partner stop me seeing my child?

Not necessarily. Unless there are welfare or safeguarding concerns, the court generally believes children benefit from having a meaningful relationship with both parents.

Can my child decide which parent they want to live with?

The wishes and feelings of a child may be taken into account, particularly as they get older. However, the court's primary consideration will always be what is in the child's best interests.

What happens if we cannot agree arrangements for our child?

Many disagreements can be resolved through negotiation or mediation. If an agreement cannot be reached, an application can be made to the Family Court for a Child Arrangements Order.

Can my ex-partner move away with our child?

A move that significantly affects a child's existing arrangements should not be made without discussion and agreement where possible. Legal advice should be sought if there is a dispute.

Can my ex-partner take our child abroad without my permission?

In many circumstances, the consent of everyone with parental responsibility is required before a child is taken abroad. If there is disagreement, legal advice should be obtained as soon as possible.

What is parental responsibility?

Parental responsibility refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a person has for a child, including important decisions regarding education, healthcare and welfare.

Can a parent change a child's school without the other parent's agreement?

Where both parents hold parental responsibility, significant decisions relating to a child’s upbringing, including a change of school, should generally be discussed and agreed upon jointly. If an agreement cannot be reached, an application can be made to the court for an order determining which school the child should attend or preventing a proposed change of school.

What happens if my ex-partner breaches a Child Arrangements Order?

Where a Child Arrangements Order is not being followed, it may be possible to return to court to seek enforcement. Legal advice should be obtained to discuss the options available.

Will I have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many child arrangements disputes are resolved without court proceedings. However, where agreement cannot be reached, court intervention may be required.

How long does a Child Arrangements Order take?

Every case is different. Timescales depend on the complexity of the issues involved and whether an agreement can be reached between those involved.

What does the court consider when making decisions about children?

The court's primary concern is the welfare of the child. Any decision made will focus on what is considered to be in the child's best interests.

Related Family Law Services

Child arrangement matters can sometimes overlap with other areas of family law. You may also wish to seek advice regarding:

• Divorce & Separation
• Financial Settlements
• Care Proceedings & Social Services
• Domestic Abuse
  
  

Speak to Our Child Arrangements Solicitors

If you need advice regarding child arrangements, parental responsibility or a dispute involving your children, our experienced Family Law team is here to help. Legal aid may be available and is subject to financial eligibility. We are happy to discuss whether you qualify for legal aid with you.

We offer a free 30-minute initial consultation to discuss your circumstances and help you understand your legal options.

Call 01484 821300 or complete our online enquiry form to arrange your free consultation.