Once a relationship has broken down, children are often caught in the middle and parents want to know their rights. In some cases, a court order is necessary for the mother or father to become the primary carer, or simply to set up a fair and regular arrangement to enable the other parent to spend time with their child(ren). I focus on what is in the best interests of the child(ren) and know the importance of creating a stable environment for them to spend time with their parents. I advise fathers of these rights and help to acquire parental responsibility if their name is not on the birth certificate.
Sometimes Grandparents are prevented from spending time with their grandchildren and I can advise on their rights and set up arrangements to enable regular contact.
As a member of Resolution, I try to avoid contested litigation and find ways to resolve these matters in an amicable and non-confrontational way. There are circumstances when court intervention is necessary. For example, when the child has been removed from the mother or father without the other parent’s consent. This sometimes takes place within this jurisdiction (England and Wales) or outside the jurisdiction (e.g. if the child is abducted). Steps can be taken to prevent this from happening and if the removal has already taken place, the necessary court orders can be obtained to ensure the child is returned to the primary carer.