Clarity & Protection for Your Child's Future

Parental Court Order Solicitors

When you need a legally binding decision about your child's upbringing, a Parental Court Order provides certainty. Our expert child law solicitors are specialists in all types of orders, guiding you with compassionate and robust legal advice.

Birmingham Law Society - Innovation The Law Society - Lexcel Accredited Conveyancing Quality Scheme Accreditation Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Member The Legal 500 Top Tier Firm

Which Parental Court Order Do You Need?

"Parental Court Order" is a broad term for several powerful legal orders related to a child's welfare. Our solicitors can advise which is right for your circumstances, ensuring we take the correct legal path from the very beginning.

Child Arrangement Order

This is the most common order. It legally decides where a child lives ('live with' orders) and who they spend time with ('spend time with' orders). This is what most people mean when they refer to child custody.

Discuss Your Arrangements

Specific Issue Order

This order is used to resolve a specific disagreement about a child's upbringing, such as which school they should attend, whether they should have a religious education, or if they can be taken abroad.

Resolve a Disagreement

Prohibited Steps Order

This is a protective court order that can prevent a parent from taking a certain action without the court's permission, such as changing a child's surname, moving them to a different part of the country, or taking them out of the UK.

Get Protective Measures
A family solicitor from Wildlings providing expert legal advice on a parental court order

Your Child's Welfare is Our Only Priority

When making any decision about a child, the Family Court's sole focus is the child's welfare. Our approach mirrors this. We provide pragmatic, sensitive advice aimed at resolving disputes constructively and avoiding unnecessary conflict, ensuring the best possible outcome for your child.

  • Child-Centric Focus: All our advice is guided by the 'Welfare Checklist' used by the Family Court.
  • Resolution Through Negotiation: We are skilled negotiators who strive to reach an agreement without a stressful court battle.
  • Robust Court Representation: If an agreement cannot be reached, we are formidable advocates for you and your child in court.
Get Expert Legal Advice

"Friendly, Approachable, and Excellent Communication"

"Dealt with my case in a very professional but friendly and approachable manner. The service was excellent and communication was very good. I was always kept informed of any developments. I would highly recommend this firm of solicitors."

- ReviewSolicitors Client

"From the very first phone call I felt at ease... The advice I was given was clear and helpful which made a very difficult time that little bit easier. I was kept informed of every stage of the process... I would highly recommend their services."

- Google Review

" Fantastic from start to finish. She was so helpful and reassuring throughout the whole process. I would not hesitate in recommending her to friends and family. A credit to the firm."

- ReviewSolicitors Client

Common Questions About Parental Court Orders

Do I have to go to court?

Not necessarily. In fact, the court requires you to first consider mediation by attending a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) unless certain exemptions apply. We always aim to resolve disputes through negotiation first, with a court application being the last resort.

What is the 'Welfare Checklist'?

This is the list of seven factors that a judge must consider when making any decision about a child's upbringing. It includes the child's wishes and feelings, their physical and emotional needs, the likely effect of any change, and the capability of the parents to meet the child's needs.

How long does it take to get a Parental Court Order?

If an agreement can be reached quickly, an order can be made in a few months. However, if the case is complex and requires a final hearing, the Family Court process can take between 6 and 12 months, and sometimes longer.

Get Clarity and Certainty for Your Child's Future

The first step is to understand your legal options. Contact our expert family solicitors for a confidential, no-obligation discussion about your case.

Request a Callback Today

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law

General Questions
What is the first step in a family law matter?

The first step is always to get expert legal advice. A solicitor can explain your legal position, your rights and options, and guide you on the best way to proceed. We can often resolve matters through negotiation or mediation, without ever needing to go to court.

How much are your family law fees?

We understand that cost is a major concern. We provide a clear estimate of costs from the very beginning. For many of our services, such as the divorce application itself, we work on a fixed-fee basis to give you complete cost certainty. We will discuss all funding options with you at your initial consultation.

Divorce & Finances
How are assets divided in a divorce?

The starting point for the division of matrimonial assets in the UK is a 50/50 split. However, the court can depart from this based on a number of factors, including the needs of any children, the length of the marriage, and the earning capacity of each party. Our goal is to negotiate a fair financial settlement that protects your future.

What is a 'Clean Break' Order?

A Clean Break Order is a legally binding court order that severs all future financial ties between you and your ex-spouse. It prevents either party from making a financial claim against the other in the future, for example, against an inheritance or lottery win. It is a crucial step in providing certainty after a divorce.

Children Matters
Who gets custody of the children?

The term 'custody' is no longer used in UK family law. Instead, the court makes 'Child Arrangement Orders' which set out where a child lives and who they spend time with. The court's only consideration is what is in the child's best interests. We always encourage parents to reach an amicable agreement, but we can make a court application if necessary to protect your relationship with your child.

Do I have to pay child maintenance?

Yes, all parents have a financial responsibility for their children. Child maintenance can be agreed privately between you, or the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) can calculate the amount. The court generally only gets involved in child maintenance for very high earners or for specific costs like school fees.

Get the Right Legal Advice for Your Family

Whatever your circumstances, our expert family law solicitors are here to provide clear, professional guidance to protect you and your family's future.

Request a Callback Today
Get in Touch

0330 333 8797
info@wildings-solicitors.co.uk

Visit us

862-864 Washwood Heath Rd, Ward End, Birmingham, B8 2NG

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday
9.00am - 5.00pm

Specialist Services for Every Family Matters