Children Act Proceedings

If a relationship breaks down and there are disputes regarding a child or children, then Children Act proceedings, governed by The Children Act 1989, may be necessary.

Disputes can arise if parents are unable to agree on care arrangements for a child or children, such as schooling, finances or if one parent wishes to relocate abroad or to another part of the UK or if there are more serious concerns regarding the welfare of a child. Parents or other family members may need assistance from the court to resolve these specific issues if decisions cannot be reached amicably through mediation or alternative dispute resolution.

Typically, Children Act proceedings will consist of 3 hearings: –

• FHDRA – First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment
• DRA – Dispute Resolution Appointment
• Trial

For a free no obligation and confidential discussion, please phone one of our lawyers for children matters on 023 9244 8100 or make an online enquiry.

Our Children Act Proceeding Legal Services

 If you are in conflict regarding your children, our experienced child law solicitors can provide advice and representation to all members of the family on a full range of issues relating to children including:

• Disputes relating to where a child should live.
• Disputes relating to with whom a child should have contact.
• Disputes relating to changing a child’s name.

If you have more serious concerns about a child’s welfare or immediate safety, please get in touch with our team as we have the expertise to obtain court orders to provide them with protection.

Cases of this nature can be extremely complex and stressful for those involved. Our specialist child law solicitors work closely with our court of protection team and together they will find the right solution for you and your family’s legal issue, guiding you through the process every step of the way.

We also have considerable expertise in applications to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a deputy, acting as a professional deputy, lasting powers of attorney, care provision and entitlement to legal aid.

Children Act Law Solicitors

Our experienced team of family lawyers includes accredited members of the Law Society’s Family Panel, and our children’s solicitor, expert Mark Tooley, is a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel thereby recognising his experience and expertise in representing children.  Supported by his experienced team of child law team, he approaches each case with a level of understanding only achievable by specialising in Child Law. All our family solicitors are committed to the Resolution Code of Practice, which promotes an approach to family law that is sensitive, constructive, cost-effective and will most likely result in an agreement.

Regardless of the complexity of your child care law matter or dispute, our solicitors in Portsmouth and Waterlooville, have the knowledge and expertise to help. Remember you can talk to us in complete confidence and gain reassurance from speaking to someone who understands your situation.

Get in Touch

To speak with one of our specialist family law team please call on 023 9244 810 or make an online enquiry