Children Matters
Child custody matters can be legally complex and emotionally taxing, requiring careful handling to ensure the best interests of the child are protected. At Sterling Law, our experienced child custody solicitors provide expert legal advice and representation to parents navigating custody disputes, child arrangement agreements, and related family law matters.
Whether you need assistance in negotiating a parenting plan, applying for a Child Arrangement Order, or dealing with complex issues such as international custody disputes, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Understanding Child Custody Law in the UK
In the UK, the legal framework for child custody is referred to as child arrangements, determining where a child will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and how key decisions regarding their upbringing will be made. The law encourages parents to reach amicable agreements, but when disputes arise, the family courts may intervene to establish legally binding arrangements.
The primary consideration in any custody case is the welfare of the child. Factors such as emotional stability, educational needs, safety, and the capability of each parent to provide appropriate care are all taken into account when making decisions.
Types of Сustody
Standard Contact
- This is the most common type of custody order in the UK.
- One parent – parent A- spends the majority of the time with the child, and the other parent – parent B – (typically the father) gets visitation rights – to see their child on weekends or other specific days.
- Parent A gets to make the final, binding decisions for the child, and is responsible for their everyday life.
- Parent B has the legal right to be involved in “major decisions” for the child. If this right is refused, our expert team will make sure that you are not unfairly being restricted from seeing your child and having an influence in their life.
Joint Custody
- Not typically the route courts go down, but if the divorce is amicable this can often be agreed with the spouse.
- The child spends an equal amount of time with each parent, and both parents are responsible. Parent B in this case is an equal with Parent A, and they both have rights and responsibility for the child.
Contact Sterling Law to get help creating a strong and fair contract to see your child.
Child Arrangement Orders
When parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, they may need to apply for a Child Arrangement Order through the Family Court. This legally binding order determines:
- Where the child will live – establishing whether the child resides with one parent (Live with Order) or shares time between both parents (Shared Care Order).
- How and when contact takes place – specifying visitation schedules, overnight stays, and communication methods such as phone or video calls (Spend Time With Order).
Our child custody lawyers assist clients with drafting applications, representing them in court, and ensuring their parental rights.
Child Custody and Domestic Violence
Cases involving domestic violence require special attention. If you have concerns about domestic abuse in a custody dispute, our legal team can help you:
- Apply for a Non-Molestation Order to prevent an abusive parent from making contact.
- Seek an Occupation Order to exclude an abusive parent from the family home.
- Obtain a Child Arrangement Order that prioritises the safety of the child.
International Child Custody
If one parent wishes to relocate with a child to another country, they must obtain consent from the other parent or permission from the court. International relocation cases can be complex, requiring careful legal planning and negotiation.
At Sterling Law, we have extensive experience in:
- Assisting parents who wish to relocate abroad with their child.
- Preventing the unlawful removal of a child from the UK (child abduction cases).
- Advising parents on the Hague Convention and international custody agreements.
If you are involved in a cross-border custody dispute, our lawyers provide the expertise needed to protect your parental rights and ensure compliance with UK and international laws.
Why Choose Sterling Law?
Our family law team has extensive experience in handling child custody, child arrangement orders, and parental disputes.
- We provide a personalised approach to every case, ensuring that the legal strategy aligns with your unique circumstances.
- We understand the emotional challenges of custody disputes and are committed to achieving the best outcome for you and your child.
- We have successfully helped numerous parents resolve child custody matters efficiently and effectively.
Contact Us for Expert Legal Advice
If you need legal guidance on child custody matters in the UK, Sterling Law is here to help. Whether you require assistance in negotiating arrangements, applying for a court order, or dealing with complex custody disputes, our experienced attorneys are ready to provide expert support.
