Learn about different Child Custody Arrangements & options (sole, joint, legal vs. physical), factors in custody decisions, and creating a parenting plan.
Losing both parents is an unimaginable tragedy for any child, but in the UK, there are legal processes in place to determine who will care for your children in the event of both parents passing away. However, without proper planning, this process can become uncertain, contentious, and emotionally taxing for your family. According to the…
The thought of losing custody of your child is an incredibly distressing experience. For parents whose children have been placed in foster care or are under a Special Guardianship Order (SGO), the question often arises: Can I get my children back? In the UK, this is not an easy road, but it is possible under…
When parents separate or divorce, one of the most challenging decisions they face is where their child will live. In the UK, this decision is guided by legal tools like the Residence Order and, more recently, the Child Arrangements Order (CAO). A Residence Order was previously the key legal mechanism for determining which parent a…
Smoking weed might seem harmless to some, especially in private settings, but when you’re a parent in the UK, the implications can be severe. Under UK law, cannabis is classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, meaning its possession or use is illegal. Beyond legal consequences, the use of…
Determining when a child can legally refuse to visit a parent in the UK is a complex and sensitive issue, steeped in emotional, psychological, and legal factors. There’s no straightforward answer, as each situation is unique, and the decision is often left to the discretion of the courts. The UK legal system aims to protect…
Deciding who a child should live with after a separation can be a challenging question for many parents. In the UK, the legal guidelines are clear, but it often depends on the child’s age and maturity. So, what age can a child choose which parent to live with? Let’s break down the rules, the legal…
Child access (or child contact) is a crucial issue for separated parents in the UK. In an ideal world, both parents would maintain an active and positive presence in their child’s life. However, due to various circumstances, child contact may need to be restricted for the child’s safety, well-being, or mental health. This article explores…
Discharging a care order in the UK can be one of the most challenging and emotional experiences a parent can face. With nearly 80,000 children in care in England alone, many parents find themselves navigating a complex legal process to regain custody of their child. A care order is not just a legal decision—it’s about…
In the UK, a child is referred to social services every 49 seconds, with over 50,000 children currently under protection plans due to abuse or neglect. Child Protection Orders are crucial legal tools that help safeguard children at risk, offering both immediate and long-term protection. These orders can be complex and daunting for parents and…
When parents separate or divorce, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for their children is a top priority. In 2022, over 52,000 Child Arrangements Orders were issued in the UK, reflecting the common need for structured parenting plans. However, as families evolve, these arrangements may no longer serve the child’s best interests, raising the question—how…