Child Arrangements Advice
When parents separate, agreeing arrangements for children can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process. Disagreements may arise about where children should live, how much time they should spend with each parent, or how important decisions should be made. These situations can feel stressful and emotionally draining.
The Divorce Lawyer Clinic provides expert legal advice on child arrangements in England and Wales, supporting parents with clear, practical guidance at every stage. Our advice is designed to help you understand your legal position, your options, and the steps available to you — without the cost or commitment of instructing a solicitor on an ongoing basis.
Legal Advice on Child Arrangements
We advise parents on all aspects of child arrangements, including:
Where children should live
How time is shared between parents
Contact schedules and handover arrangements
Parental responsibility and decision-making
Schooling, holidays, and communication
Whether a Child Arrangements Order is needed
Where parents are able to reach agreement, we can advise on whether this should be formalised and what steps, if any, are required to provide reassurance for the future. Where agreement cannot be reached, we provide clear advice on court options and the child-focused approach the court will take.
Do I Need a Child Arrangements Order?
Many parents assume court involvement is always necessary, but this is not always the case. A Child Arrangements Order may be appropriate where there is ongoing disagreement or uncertainty, but many families resolve arrangements without court proceedings.
We offer fixed-fee advice on Child Arrangements Orders, helping you decide:
Whether an application is necessary
What the court will consider
How to prepare before making an application
What outcome may be realistic
Our advice is practical, child-focused, and designed to reduce conflict wherever possible.
Fixed-Fee Online Family Law Advice
The Divorce Lawyer Clinic offers online child arrangements advice for fixed fees, allowing you to access experienced legal support when you need it. Our service is particularly suited to parents who:
Are managing matters themselves but want expert guidance
Need help before applying to the family court
Want reassurance that they are making the right decisions
Wish to avoid unnecessary legal costs
With over 19 years’ experience in family law, we provide clear, plain-English advice to help you move forward with confidence.
If you need advice about child arrangements or family court applications, book an appointment to discuss how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions – Child Arrangements
What are child arrangements?
Child arrangements cover where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, and how parents make important decisions about a child’s upbringing. The focus is always on what is in the child’s best interests.
Do we need a Child Arrangements Order?
Not always. Many parents reach an agreement without involving the court. A Child Arrangements Order may be needed if there is ongoing disagreement, uncertainty, or concern about arrangements. We can advise whether a court application is appropriate in your situation.
What will the court consider when deciding child arrangements?
The court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child. Factors include the child’s needs, their relationship with each parent, practical arrangements, and any risks to the child’s wellbeing. Each case is considered individually.
Do I need a solicitor to sort out child arrangements?
No. Many parents manage discussions themselves but seek legal advice to understand their rights, responsibilities, and options. The Divorce Lawyer Clinic offers fixed-fee advice to support you without instructing a solicitor on an ongoing basis.
Can you help if we already have an agreement?
Yes. If you have reached an agreement, we can advise whether it should be formalised and what steps, if any, are needed to provide reassurance and stability for the future.
What if we cannot agree on arrangements for our children?
If agreement cannot be reached, we can explain the options available, including mediation and court proceedings, and advise on the likely approach the court will take. Our advice is always child-focused and practical.
Can I get advice before applying to court?
Yes. Many parents seek advice before making a court application to understand whether it is necessary and what outcome may be realistic. Early advice can help avoid unnecessary conflict and delay.
How much does child arrangements advice cost?
We offer fixed-fee online family law advice, so you know the cost in advance.
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