Our expert solicitors will advise you on your rights and responsibilities in maintaining a relationship with your children.
Children Matters
Separation is never easy, and when children are involved, the emotional and legal complexities can become even more challenging.
The process involves making critical decisions about where the children will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and ensuring their financial needs are met. The well-being of the children should always be at the forefront, with a focus on maintaining stability and minimising disruption in their lives. Issues such as child custody, visitation rights, and financial support require careful consideration, as they will shape the children’s future.
It’s essential to approach these matters with sensitivity and a clear understanding of the legal options available to ensure the best possible outcome for the children’s welfare.
At Specters Solicitors, we understand that your children’s welfare is your top priority, and we are committed to helping you navigate this difficult time with compassion and expertise. Our dedicated team of family law specialists is here to ensure that your children’s best interests are protected throughout the separation process, providing you with the guidance and support you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
Child matters that we specialise in
Custody and Residence: Deciding where children will live and how time is shared between parents is a critical aspect of divorce. UK courts prioritise the child’s best interests, considering factors such as age, emotional needs, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving environment.
Visitation and Contact: Maintaining a strong relationship with both parents is vital for a child’s well-being. Clear and fair contact arrangements are essential, especially if one parent is not the primary caregiver.
Maintenance and Financial Support: Ensuring children are financially supported during and after divorce is crucial. Child maintenance is calculated based on the paying parent’s income and the child’s needs, with the goal of reaching a fair and sustainable arrangement.
Parental Responsibility: Both parents typically share legal responsibility for making important decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education and healthcare. Disputes can arise, and resolving them effectively is key to ensuring the child’s best interests are met.
Relocation Considerations: In a globalized world, one parent may wish to relocate after a divorce, impacting custody and contact arrangements. Such decisions require careful legal consideration to protect the child’s relationship with both parents.
Why choose Specters Solicitors?
Choosing the right legal team to support you during a divorce is crucial, especially when your children’s future is at stake. At Specters Solicitors, we combine deep legal expertise with a compassionate approach, ensuring that your children’s well-being remains at the heart of everything we do. Our solicitors are experienced in handling the most complex and sensitive child-related issues, offering clear, practical advice and robust representation.
Whether you’re negotiating child custody, seeking financial support, or navigating international challenges, we are here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
To help you take the first step, we offer an initial consultation free of charge to discuss your child-related matters. During this consultation, we will listen to your concerns, assess your situation, and provide you with an understanding of your options moving forward.
This is an opportunity for you to get to know our team and how we can support you, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your child’s future with confidence and clarity.
Our family law solicitors
Frequently asked questions
How are visitation rights determined?
Visitation rights, also known as contact arrangements, are typically set up to ensure that the non-custodial parent maintains a strong relationship with the child. The schedule is based on what is best for the child and can include regular visits, holiday arrangements, and special occasions.
What if we cannot agree on child arrangements?
If you and your spouse cannot agree on child arrangements, mediation is often recommended to try and reach an amicable solution. If mediation fails, the court may step in to make a decision based on the child’s best interests.
What happens if one parent wants to move abroad with the child?
If a parent wishes to relocate abroad with the child, they must obtain consent from the other parent or a court order. The court will consider the impact of the move on the child’s relationship with both parents and whether the relocation is in the child’s best interests.
What role does the child’s opinion play in custody decisions?
As children grow older, their preferences may be taken into account by the court, particularly if they are deemed mature enough to express a reasoned opinion. However, the final decision will always be based on what the court believes is in the child’s best interests.
What is the difference between sole custody and joint custody?
Sole custody means one parent has full legal and/or physical custody of the child, making all major decisions about the child’s life. Joint custody allows both parents to share decision-making responsibilities and/or physical time with the child.
