Child Arrangements
Support for these issues is something Paul specialises in. Applications fall into three distinct categories:
1. Deciding on who the children will live with after a relationship break-up,
2. Prohibited Steps,
3. Specific Issue.
Unless there are overriding reasons, the court will not accept any application without a certificate from a registered mediation practitioner (usually a solicitor) indicating that an attempt has been made by both parties to try and resolve matters by mediation and avoiding going to court.
Going through the court process can be a lengthy process and could involve two or three hearings known as Directions, Finding-of-Fact and Final Hearing and will involve an independent report by Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service).
Paul can support through the entire process from finding a suitable mediation practitioner, applying for Help With Fees (where appropriate), helping to make the original application, accompanying to all of the court hearings and helping to draft witness/position statements.
It should be noted that the above is for a new application (i.e. the very first time) or is subsequent to an order that is closed.
Varying an existing order is a different process but one that Paul can still help with.