Leeds: Father secures return order after child relocated without consent

Taking action to bring the child home

Becca Reynolds took on the case and guided the father through the process. The first step was submitting a properly constructed urgent application to the court. This one addressed the procedural issues that had led to the self-filed application being rejected, and the application was listed for a hearing shortly after submission.

Throughout proceedings, CAFCASS carried out an assessment of the situation. They concluded that the mother’s decision to relocate had been made in her own interests, rather than in the interests of the child. The court applied the welfare checklist and considered a range of factors carefully, which contributed to the court’s overall assessment of what arrangement would best serve the child’s welfare.

The judge set out two options for the mother and ultimately, she chose to return to where the father lived. Both parents now sharing the child arrangements, the child’s stability was preserved.

The client said:

“I can’t thank Rebecca Reynolds enough for everything she did to help me win my custody case. As a dad, I honestly thought it would be harder, since it often feels like the mother has the upper hand. From the start, she was quick to respond to any questions I had, always clear and reassuring. My barrister even commented on how great she was to work with. 

“Rebecca was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about what was best for [my child]. Thanks to her hard work and support, I got the outcome I was hoping for. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone who needs a solicitor who truly fights for you.”