Mediation is a method of dispute resolution sometimes used during the divorce process. Mediators focus on resolving family disagreements and can help provide a means of communication between you and your spouse. A mediator can help you to reach an agreement about issues such as childcare and the division of…
The term “custody” is considered an outdated term and is now referred to as child arrangements. Child arrangements can be a contentious and emotionally charged issue, especially during the breakdown of a relationship. In divorce proceedings, determining where and with whom a child will live is one of the most…
Child custody is an outdated legal term. However, plenty of parents will still refer to child custody when talking about who their children will live with following a divorce or civil partnership dissolution. Parents who cannot agree about where their children will live and how they will each spend time…
When a marriage comes to an end, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is how to proceed with the separation. Separating couples are expected to explore mediation or other non-court dispute resolution methods before initiating court proceedings. Even if litigation becomes necessary, it is still encouraged to seek agreement…
There is often confusion surrounding fathers’ rights to overnight stays. In fact, the notion of a father having the ‘right’ to look after their children overnight is a common misunderstanding. It is important to clarify that the law holds the view that parents have responsibilities towards their children and that…
Starting a new relationship after divorce or separation has the potential to create a complex dynamic, particularly if you have children with your ex-partner. So long as both you and your former partner continue to have parental responsibility for your children, you will both be entitled to have a say…
The rights of parents and especially fathers to spend time with their children after a couple separate can be a highly complex and emotive issue. It’s unfortunately common to hear tales of fathers who are being denied the right to access their children, leading them to question what rights they…
Ending your marriage is a major event that will have consequences for many areas of your life. Unfortunately, many people are not fully aware of what those consequences may be and it is not uncommon for people to start divorce proceedings without fully understanding all of the ways it may…
Telling children about divorce is never easy, so it is understandable to be worried about this and wonder what the best way to approach the subject is. While each situation is different, there are things you can do to help plan, make the conversation easier and limit any negative impact…
Divorcing couples with children often find reaching an agreement about the care of their children after divorce or separation pretty difficult. Those who cannot reach an agreement amicably find themselves asking the family court to decide. Either party can make an application for what is known as a child arrangements…
Since the early 1990s Child Support Agency (CSA) (now called the Child Maintenance Service (CMS)) has dealt with financial support for children. This means that in the majority of cases the court cannot decide how much child support is payable. However, where one or other parent lives outside England or…