Things to consider before applying for a child arrangements order
Before you make an application for a child arrangements order, you should try to agree on the arrangements with the other party. You can consider preparing a parenting plan; a written statement that both parents sign up to establish the ground rules of shared parenting.
Mediation can also assist parents in reaching an agreement about arrangements for their children. If an agreement cannot be reached, then it will be necessary to issue an application for a child arrangements order.