When parents separate, one of the most important, and often most emotional, matters to sort out is how their children will be cared for. We work closely with families to help them agree on arrangements that are in their children’s best interests, while also being fair and practical for everyone involved.
Child arrangements refer to the decisions made about where a child lives, how often they see the other parent, and how major issues like schooling or medical care are handled. We’ve guided many clients through this process, whether by agreement, mediation or court proceedings when needed.
Our team regularly helps parents in Taunton and the wider Somerset area resolve arrangements without the need for confrontation. Every family is different, and we take time to listen and offer realistic, compassionate legal advice.
What are typical child arrangement agreements?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Some families agree that the child lives mainly with one parent and sees the other on weekends or school holidays. Others prefer a shared arrangement where time is split more evenly.
A common example might be a child living with their mother during the school week and staying with their father on alternate weekends, with additional time during holidays. Another might be a full 50/50 shared care arrangement where both parents have equal responsibility and contact.
How are child arrangements decided?
If parents agree between themselves, the arrangement can be written down in a Parenting Plan or made legally binding via a consent order. If agreement isn’t possible, we help our clients apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order.
In all cases, the child’s welfare is the most important consideration. The court will want to see evidence that both parents can meet the child’s needs and support their relationship with the other parent.
What happens if circumstances change?
Child arrangements can be reviewed if a parent moves house, remarries, or if the child’s needs change as they get older. We often support parents in applying to vary existing orders or in renegotiating informal agreements when life moves on.
In our experience, maintaining clear, respectful communication with the other parent can help avoid long-term conflict. Where that’s not possible, we’re here to help take the pressure off.