When parents separate, decisions involving children can quickly become emotionally charged and overwhelming. With trust often fractured, it can be difficult to stay focused on what truly matters: the wellbeing, stability and future of the child. Sally and the family team at CJCH Solicitors have many years’ experience guiding parents and carers through child arrangements applications, offering clear, practical advice at a time when emotions are high and the stakes feel enormous. Their role is to help families navigate both the immediate pressures and the longer-term arrangements that will shape a child’s life.
Sally explains, “Our job is to try to guide parents and carers in a very stressful time of their lives. We have to be aware of the short-term worries but also the long-term arrangements for the child’s future.”
She explains how the court take all matters into account when considering an application, “the Judge has to weigh up all considerations, along with the need for children to have a relationship with both sides of their family.”
The new Pathfinder process in the local courts focuses on a more productive way of dealing with children’s cases, ensuring the child’s voice is heard and key information is gathered before the parties attend any court hearings. From making an application for a Child Arrangements Order to its conclusion, the process is much quicker, often taking only a few months. A detailed report is prepared by CAFCASS or the Local Authority, with children spoken to in an age-appropriate way and their views and wishes carefully considered.
In most cases, the Judges will follow these recommendations unless there is a clear reason not to. While the shorter timescale can be positive, some clients find the quicker turnaround an understandably anxious few months.
Before making any court application, the CJCH family team recommend seeking legal advice. They can discuss the most appropriate timing for an application and the likely outcome. As Sally explains, “getting expert advice is vital in any legal matter, but especially when it concerns your child’s future.”
As a parent herself, Sally understands the worry and organisation involved in raising a family, and how important communication and structure are when co-parenting. “My family is now all grown up, but I still remember the last-minute World Book Day costume I had to rustle together before going to work, or having to rely on friends and family for school pick-ups if I couldn’t make it. Juggling work and childcare is really difficult.”
Sally suggests some ways to co-parent before going to court:
(1) Talk. However difficult it is, you are the parents and know your child best.
(2) Try to stay child focused and think what they would want.
(3) Try a parenting app to use as a joint calendar for school events and health appointments, and discuss contact dates.
(4) If there are problems, speak to a lawyer before they get worse.
When it comes to decisions involving children, being informed and supported can make a difference. Taking early legal advice can help you understand your options, reduce uncertainty and avoid issues. Whether you are considering making an application or simply need guidance, the CJCH family team can provide clear, practical advice focused on protecting your child’s wellbeing and future.
