What Can the Family Court Do in Private Children Cases?
Short guide to family court orders for parents in dispute
Contributed by Hannah Petherick of Burges Salmon's Family Team
The family court prefers not to get involved in child arrangements and parenting decisions. However, if parents are unable to agree matters between them (for example, via mediation), or if there are safeguarding concerns, they can apply to the family court for a decision.
What Orders Can the Court Make?
The family court has the power to resolve disputes relating to child arrangements with binding and enforceable orders, where that is deemed to be in the best interests of the child. This includes settling living arrangements, addressing specific disagreements, or preventing unilateral (single-handed) action by one parent. The court’s focus is always on the child’s welfare which can often include the need for parents to take steps to resolve their dispute without continuing court proceedings.
This article provides a short introduction to private children proceedings. Specialist, regulated legal advice is strongly recommended.