Child Arrangement Orders – Your Questions Answered
When parents separate, one of the most important issues is deciding where the children will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. If parents cannot agree, the court can step in and make a Child Arrangement Order (CAO).
At Capital One Solicitors, we provide clear advice and strong representation to help you reach the right arrangements for your children.
What is a Child Arrangement Order?
A Child Arrangement Order is a legally binding court order that sets out:
- Who a child will live with.
- When and how a child will spend time with the other parent (contact).
- Sometimes, additional details about holidays, schooling, or communication.
Who Can Apply for a Child Arrangement Order?
Usually, applications are made by:
- Parents.
- Guardians.
- Step-parents or relatives who have lived with the child.
In some circumstances, others may apply if they have permission from the court.
Do I Have to Go to Court?
Not always. The court encourages parents to reach an agreement themselves, often through negotiation or mediation. A court order is usually the last resort if discussions break down or if there are concerns about a child’s safety.
How Does the Court Decide?
The court will always put the child’s welfare first. Factors considered include:
- The child’s wishes and feelings (depending on age and maturity).
- Their physical, emotional, and educational needs.
- The ability of each parent to meet those needs.
- Any risk of harm.
Can a Child Arrangement Order Be Changed?
Yes. If circumstances change, either parent can apply to vary the order. For example, if one parent moves abroad, or if the child’s needs develop as they get older.
What Happens If the Other Parent Ignores the Order?
If a parent breaches the order, you can apply to the court to enforce it. The court has powers to impose penalties or adjust the arrangements to ensure compliance.
How We Can Help
At Capital One Solicitors, our child law specialists can:
- Help you negotiate parenting arrangements without going to court.
- Apply for a Child Arrangement Order where necessary.
- Represent you in court proceedings.
- Advise on enforcement if the order is breached.
📞 Contact our family law team today for confidential advice about Child Arrangement Orders and protecting your relationship with your children.
Our Expertise on Child Arrangement Orders
At Capital One Solicitors, our dedicated Children’s Law Department provides clear, practical advice to parents facing disputes about child custody and living arrangements.
We understand how sensitive and difficult these issues can be, especially following separation or divorce. Our experienced family solicitors guide clients through the options available, working to resolve disputes constructively wherever possible. When cases become more complex or intractable, we provide strong representation to protect both your rights and your child’s best interests.
Our Areas of Specialism
Our Children’s Law Department is highly experienced in advising and representing clients in matters involving:
- Child Arrangement Orders – determining where a child lives and the time they spend with each parent.
- Parental Responsibility Orders – ensuring both parents have legal rights and responsibilities.
- Prohibited Steps Orders – preventing specific actions, such as relocation or school changes, without consent.
- Specific Issue Orders – resolving disputes over matters like education, religion, or medical care.
- Special Guardianship Orders – giving long-term care and responsibility to relatives or carers.
- Emergency Applications – urgent court intervention to safeguard children from immediate risk.
- Enforcement of Contact – ensuring contact arrangements ordered by the court are followed.
- Permanent Relocation Cases – applications to move a child abroad permanently.
- Temporary Removal from Jurisdiction – seeking permission for holidays or temporary travel outside England and Wales.
Why Choose Capital One Solicitors?
- A dedicated team focused solely on children’s law.
- Expertise in both negotiated settlements and contested court proceedings.
- Proven experience in handling sensitive, high-conflict, and international cases.
- A compassionate, child-focused approach tailored to your family’s needs.
📞 Contact our child law solicitors today for confidential advice and support on child arrangement disputes.
