Our Family Law solicitors are experienced in handling all manner of cases relating to children in a sensitive and child-focused manner.

What is child access?

When separating and discussing the future arrangements for their children, parents often refer to child custody and access.  Solicitors and Courts no longer use these terms but now refer to more child-focused arrangements in terms of who the children will live with and when they will spend time with the other parent.

Will I still see my child after separation?

The law provides a presumption that the involvement of both parents in the children’s lives will further the children’s welfare, providing it is safe to do so.  Unless there are safeguarding concerns for the children, parents should attempt to agree arrangements for their children to spend time with both parents.

How can we reach agreement?

We recognise that it is sometimes difficult to agree these arrangements, particularly at a time when you are both coming to terms with the end of a relationship and emotions are running high.  We appreciate that it is important to preserve the co-parenting relationship so that you can both continue to be the best parents you can be for your children moving forwards.

Our highly experienced team of child law solicitors can assist you to resolve issues relating to the arrangements for the children in a child-focused, sensitive and non-confrontational way and can offer mediation, adopt a collaborative approach or arrange round-table meetings and where appropriate and agreed by you both, can involve family counsellors or therapists who can assist to resolve some of the issues between you both.  We can help you with the preparation of a parenting plan setting out agreements reached about the practical elements of caring for your children following your separation.

Will I have to go to Court?

If there are no safeguarding concerns but it does not prove possible to reach agreement with the other parent, we can provide advice on other non-Court based methods of resolving disputes, including arbitration which is often quicker and less expensive than Court proceedings.

Sometimes, however, particularly where there are safeguarding issues, applications to Court are necessary and we will deal with these in the most child-centred, cost-effective and efficient way.

Why choose Trethowans?

The award winning Family Team at Trethowans are recognised for the care, support and excellent advice they provide to their clients.

Trethowans are the ‘go to’ Family Firm in the area.  They give their clients practical solutions in difficult situations.  Matters are always well prepared and their service is excellent” – Legal 500 2022

The team are members of Resolution, which follows a Code of Practice to ensure that your personal circumstances are dealt with in the most dignified and constructive manner.

We offer a free initial consultation to help you consider your options without obligation.

Our child law solicitors in Bournemouth, Poole, Salisbury, Southampton and Winchester are here to help or call us on 0800 2800 421

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