Children

When a relationship ends, most parents worry far less about themselves than about the children; whether they’ll be alright; what you’re supposed to tell them.

It’s the part that keeps people awake, and it’s the part where good advice makes the most difference. There is something genuinely reassuring in the research, too: what shapes how children come through a separation is not the structure of the family, but the quality of the relationships around them. Where it’s safe to do so, finding a way to parent together, even imperfectly, matters more than almost anything else.

Get in touch

How we can help with legal matters around your children.

Child arrangements

Where children live and how they spend time with each of you.

Specific decisions

Disagreements about schooling, medical treatment, holidays abroad and other significant choices.

Relocation

Where one parent wants to move, either elsewhere in the UK or abroad.

Wider family and support

Grandparents’ contact, special guardianship, and financial provision for children.

Get in touch Family Law FAQs

Most arrangements never reach a court.

Most arrangements for children are settled between parents without a court ever being involved, and that’s usually the best outcome for everyone. We can help you reach an agreement that works, or step in where things have stalled. Where there are safety concerns, or where agreement simply isn’t possible, we’ll advise you on going to court and represent you there. Kate Jackson holds Resolution’s Specialist Accreditation in private children law, a recognition given only to solicitors with real depth of experience in this area.

Where we can help

Child arrangements

Where children live and how they spend time with each of you.

Specific decisions

Disagreements about schooling, medical treatment, holidays abroad and other significant choices.

Relocation

Where one parent wants to move, either elsewhere in the UK or abroad.

Wider family and support

Grandparents’ contact, special guardianship, and financial provision for children.

If court becomes necessary.

We’ll prepare your application or your response, help you set out your concerns clearly, including any allegations of harm, and draft the statements the court needs.

Most cases will also involve Cafcass, the independent body that advises the family court about children’s welfare. Their report carries real weight, so we’ll make sure you understand what to expect and how to put your concerns across properly.

Where it isn’t safe to try.

We’re experienced in high conflict cases and in cases involving domestic abuse, and we’re realistic about them. Not every situation can be resolved amicably, and it isn’t always safe to try. If that’s your position, say so and we’ll act accordingly. If you’re worried about your safety or your children’s, our Domestic Abuse page sets out what protection is available and how quickly it can be put in place.

Whatever stage you’re at.

If you’re separating on reasonably good terms, Separating Together allows you both to work with one solicitor to sort out arrangements for the children and the finances together. Otherwise our Divorce & Separation page covers the wider process.

Get in touch and we’ll talk it through. There’s no obligation, and we’ll listen before we advise.