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Child Arrangement Order Solicitors

When parents separate, arrangements for their children are often the most important issue to resolve. A child arrangements order is an order made under the Children Act 1989 that sets out who a child is to live with, spend time with, or otherwise have contact with. It is typically used where those with parental responsibility are unable to reach agreement, and the court is asked to determine the arrangements that best promote the child’s welfare. The order can also provide a clear legal framework for day-to-day care, helping to reduce uncertainty and set out arrangements in a way that reflects the child’s needs and best interests.

Stowe Family Law is the UK’s largest specialist family law firm, with more than 90 offices across England and Wales – including London, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Sheffield, Bristol, Cardiff, and beyond. Our award-winning team is ranked as a leading firm by both Chambers & Partners 2026 and The Legal 500 2026, and has been named in The Times Best Law Firms list in 2026. Our Excellent Trustpilot rating reflects our quality of service and dedication to client care.

As a member of Resolution and a firm authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Stowe Family Law takes a constructive and carefully considered approach to family matters. Wherever possible, we look for a resolution without court proceedings. Non-court dispute resolution methods (including mediation, collaborative law, and negotiation) can be less stressful, less costly, and keep conflict minimal between the whole family. If court is necessary, our solicitors can represent you with expertise.

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Key child law information​

How do I resolve a child arrangements dispute?

Ideally, you and your ex-partner would be able to agree on post-divorce arrangements between yourselves. We understand that this is not always easy, and so family law solicitors are there to negotiate on your behalf if needed, and guide you through non-court dispute resolution methods where appropriate. Court intervention is a last resort if you cannot reach a compromise.

What child arrangement decisions might I need to resolve?​

Every family is different, and you will need to do what is best for your children.The courts believe that wherever possible, children should have contact with both parents and extended family. You will also need to decide on various responsibilities, how and when the children will move between parents and ongoing communication. 

Do you need a solicitor for a child arrangements order?

To apply for a child arrangements order, you will need to fill in form C100, which can be done yourself. However, an expert family lawyer will be able to guide you through the form, and give insight into what information the court will require. They will also explain possible outcomes.

How long do child arrangement orders take?

Depending on the complexity of your case, court timescales, and the cooperation of both sides throughout the process, getting a child arrangements order granted can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

See more answers to common questions

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What are child arrangements?

Child arrangements is the term used by many people to identify who children live with and spend time with after divorce or separation. This could provide that a child or children live with one parent and spend time with another, or that there is a shared care arrangement. Recent court guidance sets out that a shared care order is not only suitable where the parents have equal division of time, but also where one parent previously had limited time with the children. Having a shared care order ensures that the parents are on equal footing with regards to holidays abroad and schooling. This would also signal the value of each parent in the children’s lives and promote a sense of stability.  

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Many parents choose to make a flexible arrangement between themselves, but it is best if decisions are documented in a parenting plan. Although these are not legally binding, they can build a solid foundation for parenting after separation to ensure that there is stability and routine for children. 

Where parents cannot agree outside of court, the family court can step in to make decisions based on the welfare of the children.

Types of arrangements

  • Residence orders: Determining where your child lives
  • Contact orders: Arranging time with both parents

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What are child arrangements orders?

A child arrangement order is a court order that sets out who is responsible for the care of a child. It is usually used when the parents cannot agree on how to split care of their children.

Child arrangements orders can also contain decisions on the children’s structure, plans for education, even the amount of screen time they are allowed.

Types of arrangements:

  • lives with both parents – this is either used in circumstances the child spends equal (or close to) time with each parent
  • lives with and spends time – explains which parent the child spends the most time with and defines the time the other parent has with the child
Cohabiting, unmarried couple

What child arrangements will I need to make after divorce or separation?

Child arrangement decisions are unique to your family. A family lawyer can support you in what needs to be sorted out and help you navigate conversations with your ex.

Issues that you may need to resolve can include, but are not limited to:

  • Where your children should live, and if there are any moves proposed by either parents (either within England/Wales or internationally)
  • How much time the children spend with each parent and when
  • Financial arrangements including who is responsible for costs of bringing up the children and how this is fairly divided between you both
  • Any requests for changing the children’s names
  • Education decisions, for example schools, extra curricular activities etc.

Coming to child arrangement decisions after a separation requires a sensitive and informed approach. We expertly navigate the legal complexities, advocating for arrangements that serve your children’s best interest and support the future of your family.

Shanika Haynes, Team Leader Partner

Will there be a court hearing for my child arrangements?

Not necessarily. Many families reach an agreement about child arrangements without ever stepping inside a courtroom, and this is often the better outcome for everyone involved – particularly for the children.

Will there be a court hearing for my child arrangements?

Not necessarily. Many families reach an agreement about child arrangements without ever stepping inside a courtroom, and this is often the better outcome for everyone involved – particularly for the children.

  • Before applying to court: MIAM

    Before making a court application, you are generally required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). At a MIAM, a trained mediator will discuss the dispute with each of you separately and consider whether mediation or another form of non-court dispute resolution could help. Exemptions do apply in certain circumstances, such as where there are safety concerns.

  • Making the application

    If you are unable to resolve matters outside of court, the next step is to apply using a C100 form, which is submitted to the Family Court along with a court fee. Once the application is received, the court will set a date for the first hearing.

  • The first hearing: FHDRA

    The First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA) takes place in private. A CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) officer will typically be involved, carrying out initial safeguarding checks and speaking with both parties before the hearing. The purpose of this first appointment is to establish the issues in dispute, explore whether agreement can be reached, and set out the steps needed to progress the case.

  • If the case continues

    If agreement is not reached at the first hearing, the case may move to a Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA), and ultimately to a final hearing, where both parties give evidence and the court makes a decision.

    Our solicitors will support you at every stage. They’ll help you understand what to expect, prepare your case thoroughly, and advocate for an outcome that reflects your child’s best interests.

Meet our expert child law solicitors

Get expert advice and support tailored to your situation from our experienced legal team.

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Rachel Roberts

UK Managing Director
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"Rachel Roberts is excellent. She is efficient, effective and pragmatic with her advice" (Legal500) Rachel has been with the firm for over 23 years and is now our UK Managing Director. Responsible for our legal operations across the UK, Rachel leads our growing team of over 200 lawyers to ensure our clients are provided with excellent service and legal advice.
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Beth Sheridan

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I have over 25 years of experience across a wide range of family law matters arising from a relationship breakdown with significant experience in divorce and the accompanying financial settlements. I have also frequently represented parents, grandparents, and other family members in cases regarding child arrangements.  
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Phoebe Turner

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Hannah Ross

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Judit Kerese

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Kate Bouwmeester

Senior Associate, East Anglia & Essex
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Kate's experience and attention to detail enables her to assist clients in a pragmatic manner with empathy and understanding.
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Katy Jordan

Senior Associate, Bristol & South Wales
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La-Toyah Phillips

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La-Toyah is a senior associate working from our North Hampshire and Berkshire offices.
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Lin Cumberlin

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Lin is a Senior Associate based in our Southampton law office.
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Louise Forsyth

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Penny-jo Freddi

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Sarah Sowden

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Sophie Croft

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Sophie Thayre

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Zanariah Webster

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Associate, Cheshire
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Emily will always take a pragmatic approach and ensure her client's feel supported through the process.
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Francesca Sanderson

Associate, Hampshire
Divorce Domestic Abuse Finance Grandparents' Rights
Francesca has a varied experience in family law. Francesca specialises in child arrangements, relocation applications and injunctions and can advise on divorce and financial settlements. Francesca also has previous experience advising and representing clients when social services have become involved with their children.
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Jenni Morrow

Associate, Kent
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
Jenni joined Stowe in 2024 working out of our Tunbridge Wells office and supports clients across Kent including in her current hometown of Ashford.
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Katie Harrison

Associate, Derbyshire & South Yorkshire
Divorce Civil Partnerships Cohabitation Domestic Abuse
Katie is an associate in our Sheffield office.
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Kirsty Dourado

Associate, London
Divorce Islamic divorce Surrogacy Civil Partnerships
Kirsty is an Associate Solicitor based in our London law office.
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Lauren Ashforth

Associate, Devon
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
Lauren specialises in all areas of family law, such as divorce and matrimonial finance and private children matters.    
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Monica Lal

Associate, West Midlands
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
Monica joined Stowe Family Law's Midlands team in 2022.
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Phoebe Trott

Associate, East Anglia & Essex
Divorce Adoption Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse
Phoebe provides specialist legal advice across all aspects of private family law including divorce, matrimonial finances, private children law, cohabitation disputes and injunction matters.
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Rebecca Bridson

Associate, London
Divorce Mediation Civil Partnerships Cohabitation
Rebecca is an Associate based in our London Victoria office.
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Samantha Edwards

Associate, Kent
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
Samantha is an Associate in our Tunbridge Wells team.
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Becca Reynolds

Solicitor, Greater Manchester & North Yorkshire
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
Becca is a Solicitor based in Stowe's Leeds office.
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Eleanor Hall

Solicitor, West Midlands
Divorce Adoption Forensic Accountancy Civil Partnerships
Eleanor is a Solicitor based at our Birmingham law office.
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Kate Evans

Solicitor, Oxfordshire
Divorce Children Finance Resolution Member
Kate is a solicitor based out of our Oxford office.
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Kelsey Faulkner

Solicitor, Cheshire, Lancashire & Merseyside
Divorce Adoption Domestic Abuse Finance
Kelsey is a Solicitor based in Stowe's Liverpool office.
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Lauren Kite

Solicitor, Surrey & Sussex
Divorce Children Cohabitation Finance
Lauren is a Solicitor based in our Guildford office.
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Madison Barlow

Solicitor, Bristol, Gloucestershire & Somerset
Divorce Children Finance
Madison is a Solicitor at our Cheltenham law office.
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Molly Beattie

Solicitor, North East
Divorce Surrogacy Domestic Abuse Finance
Molly is a Solicitor based in Stowe's Newcastle office.
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Rachel Tomley

Solicitor, West Midlands
Divorce Surrogacy Domestic Abuse Finance
Rachel is a solicitor in our Birmingham office.
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Semra Ramadan

Solicitor, East Midlands
Divorce Children Cohabitation Finance
Semra is a Solicitor at our Peterborough law office.
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Zeneb Muneer

Solicitor, Berkshire
Divorce Mediation Legal Assistant Children
Zaneb is a solicitor based out of our Reading office.  
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Yvonne Taiwo

Solicitor, East Anglia & Essex
Divorce Domestic Abuse Finance Grandparents' Rights
Yvonne is a solicitor in Stowe's Chelmsford office.
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Mark Christie

Client Services Team Lawyer
Divorce Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Finance
I have specialised in family law for over 40 years with a focus on divorce, separation and private law children disputes, often advising on very complex cases. I am noted for my non-confrontational manner and supportive approach that helps to resolve matters quickly and avoid court hearings, where possible.      
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Caitlin Hall

Paralegal, Cheshire, Lancashire & Merseyside
Divorce Children Finance
Caitlin Hall is a Paralegal based in Liverpool, working alongside the wider team to support families in this area.
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Simone Bartha

Paralegal, West Midlands
Divorce Mediation Collaborative Law Finance
Simone is a Paralegal at our Birmingham law office.
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Megan Hannan

Legal Assistant, Derbyshire & South Yorkshire
Divorce Legal Assistant Children Domestic Abuse
Megan Hannan is a Legal Assistant based in the Sheffield office.
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How does globalisation affect family law?

What does the Court look at when deciding arrangements for a child?

The welfare of the child is the court’s paramount consideration and every decision the court makes must be guided by this principle. The Court also applies the welfare checklist set out in Section 1 of the Children Act 1989. This requires the court to consider:

  • The child’s wishes and feelings: Taken into account in light of the child’s age and understanding
  • The child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs: Both current and future needs will be considered, and the court will assess which arrangements are best placed to meet them
  • The likely effect of any change in circumstances: The court will weigh up the impact that changes (such as a new living arrangement or a change of school) might have on the child
  • The child’s age, sex, background, and relevant characteristics: Including cultural and religious background where this is material to the child’s welfare
  • Any harm the child has suffered or is at risk of suffering: This includes domestic abuse, and the court will take allegations seriously. In appropriate cases, a separate fact-finding hearing may be held
  • The capability of each parent to meet the child’s needs: There is no automatic assumption that one parent is better placed than the other. The court looks at the practicalities of what each parent can offer
  • The range of powers available to the court: The court can make a wide range of orders, even if they have not been specifically applied for

Understanding how the welfare checklist applies to your situation can make a real difference to how your case is presented. Our lawyers will work with you to build a clear, evidence-based picture of what is in your child’s best interests.

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What if one parent wants to move abroad?

Relocating abroad with a child is a significant step, and one that requires careful legal consideration. As a general principle, it is a criminal offence under the Child Abduction Act 1984 to remove a child from England and Wales without the consent of everyone who holds parental responsibility, or without a court order permitting the move.

If both parents agree to the relocation, it is advisable to document that agreement formally. Where agreement cannot be reached, the parent wishing to relocate must apply to the court for permission. This is commonly referred to as a leave to remove application.

The court will approach a leave to remove application in the same way as any other child arrangements matter – by applying the welfare principle and the welfare checklist. The child’s welfare is the only consideration that matters. The court will examine factors such as:

  • The child’s wishes and feelings, depending on their age and understanding
  • The impact the relocation would have on the child’s relationship with the parent remaining in England and Wales
  • The practicality of maintaining contact between the child and the non-relocating parent
  • The child’s educational, emotional, and social needs in the proposed new location
  • The reasons for the proposed move and whether they are genuine

If a parent relocates with a child without the necessary consent or court order, the other parent can apply for a prohibited steps order, seek an emergency return, or – in urgent cases – request port alerts to prevent the child from leaving the country.

These cases are often complex and emotionally charged. Whether you are considering a move abroad or concerned that your former partner may be planning one, taking early legal advice is important. Our lawyers can help you understand your position and act promptly where needed.

Why choose Stowe Family Law?

  • As the only national law firm fully dedicated to family matters, our expert team offers professional advice so you can make a fully informed decision about your divorce.

  • We are proud to be rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot. Check out our reviews to see what our previous clients have said about our service.

  • We feature in The Legal 500 rankings and are fully authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

  • We keep you informed. Take a look at our support section, which features a range of helpful guides, focusing on important topics including finances and mediation.

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Let's ask Anon

Your practical advice and empathy were invaluable and helped me to see the situation more clearly and to know what to do next

Let's ask J D

I saw Sarah McLoughlin as part of my 'Next steps Meeting.' Sarah was an excellent listener giving easy to understand information in a calm manner. She broke down the next steps in a format that I felt empowered to undertake. She was knowledgeable and friendly. I was nervous at the start of the meeting but she was able to put my fears at ease an… Read mored I finished the meeting feeling relieved and smiling.

Let's ask Mr Ryan Smith

Thank you for the help and advice and making the process a lot easier and take care thank you very much

Let's ask Mrs H

Mr Mark Christie is an absolutely fabulous solicitor and I simply can not recommend him enough. He managed to calmly and clearly control my case and simply outclassed the other side due to his attention to detail. Mr Christie is approachable, realistic but most of all extremely diligent and it is this quality that helps him to win cases. I would 1… Read more00% recommend.

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‘Nicola Beasley is an asset to Stowe and her capabilities far exceed her level of relative experience. She is able to hold her own against partners of other firms. Her correspondence is always measured yet sufficiently robust and detailed. Her attention to detail is particularly impressive.’

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Stowe have been professional and supportive throughout. Sarah has always taken the time to explain the process clearly to me and I have always felt that she was there to support me, and my wishes, giving me confidence at a difficult time. In particular Sarah has shone in comparison to the other parties' solicitor who has at times been incompetent a… Read morend unprofessional, in complete contrast to her own service. Thank you.

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[the team] ‘work with each client individually to achieve the best outcome for the client. They work in a holistic way with other professionals and provide support opportunities beyond the purely legal through referrals and workshops and seminars with coaches and other partners.‘

Let's ask A P

I received very prompt sympathetic and trustworthy advice from Stowe. My divorce was complicated by child protection issues and Stowe out performed the other side and enabled the correct and fair conclusions to be drawn. I would highly recommend.
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Common questions on child arrangement orders

Common questions on child arrangement orders

  • Why you might need a child arrangements order

    Child arrangements orders are necessary when parents cannot agree on the child’s living arrangements or how much time they should spend with each parent. They ensure the child’s welfare is prioritised and provide a clear, legally binding framework that both parents must follow.

  • How to apply for a child arrangements order

    You need to apply to the family court for a child arrangements order, and the process will likely include several hearings. Once in place, the order is legally binding and will last until the child is 16 or 18, depending on the content of the order

  • What is child contact?

    Child contact refers to the time a child spends with the non-resident parent i.e. the parent they do not primarily live with. Contact includes overnight stays and daytime contact. Access is not a term used in family law, as ‘contact’ covers all the necessary information.

  • When would I need a children lawyer?

    Speaking to an expert family solicitor who specialises in children matters is advisable, particularly if you and your ex are struggling to agree on certain issues. A child lawyer will support negotiations, including help with mediation if appropriate. They can also guide you through the court process of applying for a child arrangements order if you cannot agree matters. 

  • How much does a child arrangements lawyer cost?

    Legal costs will vary depending on the complexity of your case, your lawyer’s experience, and whether you need to go to court. Applying for a child arrangements order through the court comes with a court fee. 

  • Who will the children live with after a divorce?

    Custody is not a term used in England and Wales. Child arrangement decisions are unique to your family. Separating parents are encouraged to come to an agreement together that centres around the best interests of their children. Neither parent is prioritised based on gender when it comes to child arrangements.

  • What happens when unmarried parents separate?

    The law does not distinguish between married or unmarried parents regarding child arrangements – the welfare of the children is paramount. However, when it comes to unmarried parents, the mother automatically has parental responsibility. The father will have this too if he is registered on the birth certificate. He can also obtain a parental responsibility agreement, or apply to the court for parental responsibility. 

    In female same-sex relationships, the birth mother will have automatic parental responsibility, and the other parent may also be named on the birth certificate to obtain parental responsibility. For male same-sex couples, the parents will have needed to get a parental order. This can be complex so it is important to seek expert legal advice from a family lawyer.

    Child arrangements after separation are determined much like after divorce. There are claims unmarried parents can make regarding financial provision for children, under the Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989.

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Ashley Le-Core is a Partner at Stowe Family Law’s Tunbridge Wells office. He handles all areas of family law, including, but not limited to, injunctions, children arrangements, divorce and finances, Special Guardianship and relocation out of the jurisdiction applications.

Date last reviewed: 23/04/2025

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