Unfortunately when a relationship breaks down children are often caught in the middle and it is not always easy to agree the arrangements for your children with your ex-partner. In most cases it will be expected that your children should have a relationship with both parents provided that it is safe and appropriate to do so depending on the circumstances of your individual case.
If you are unable to agree arrangements for your children (formally known as ‘residence’ and ‘contact’) then our Family Solicitors can assist by offering you helpful, constructive advice. We understand that children will always be the most important consideration for parents if a relationship should unfortunately break down. We can help you address matters relating to whether or when a child should see each parent, where a child should live, issues relating to Parental Responsibility and more specific issues such as education, change of name or holidays, and financial support for children.
There are various ways which can assist you with reaching an agreement which include:
- Agreement reached through correspondence
- Round table meeting.
- Mediation
- Court
If necessary, once an agreement has been reached it can be a good idea to include it in a ‘parenting plan’. There is no set definition of what can, or should, be included in a parenting plan because all families are different and have different requirements. Often the contents will include the arrangements for the child to spend time with each parent, handover arrangements, the practicalities of your children’s care, religion, education, healthcare, the introduction of new partners and decisions about the future. A parenting plan is specific to your own family situation and provides your agreed guidelines so you both know what is expected from you and hopefully helps to create some consistency for your children between their two homes.
what our clients say
The team at Leathes Prior is prompt and proactive, and explains the options clearly. Alisdair Douglas is very knowledgeable, and guides clients through the process in a caring way. He is one of Norfolk’s leading lawyers for complex divorce and Children Act matters.
Leathes Prior is outstanding, ethical and excellent value for money. Practice head Alisdair Douglas is one of Norfolk’s leading lawyers for divorce and private law proceedings under the Children Act.
Leathes Prior’s Alisdair Douglas has a full grasp of what needs to be done. His team is easy to deal with, polite and courteous on all aspects of divorce, civil partnerships and Children Act matters.
Leathes Prior’s team is helpful and professional. Resolution-accredited Alisdair Douglas and rising star Simon Willis excel in divorce, financial remedy and private Children Act matters
One of the best local firms.
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for all your hard and professionalism throughout the proceedings. I always felt you were looking out for my best interests. It was a pleasure doing business with you and the company and will use you again should I need to and will recommend to others.
Exemplary service and clear and accurate advice.
They give sound and practical advice on a range of private client matters with some strong lawyers on their books.
Excellent service and thorough responses.
Just superb – great service, great communication, no gobbledegook.
The team listens carefully, is very professional and makes clients feel comfortable.
As always excellent, courteous, prompt and professional service.
I would just like to say that you have, over the past three years on this matter, looked after me exceptionally well. Thank you.
Partner Alisdair Douglas leads the team and has almost 20 years’ experience in family law. He is an advanced member of the Family Law Panel, an accredited Resolution specialist in the areas of advanced financial provision and private children law, and a member of the Good Divorce Group in Norfolk.