Children

Discussions relating to the time which children spend with each of their parents following separation can be one of the most difficult and emotional aspects facing a parent. The Court will not make any Order at all in respect of children unless it is absolutely necessary to do so. We can, with our specialised family team, help you try to resolve these issues amicably and constructively.

If it is impossible to achieve agreement the Court can be asked to make some or all of the following Orders:-

• A Residence Order, determining where the children should primarily live or a Shared Residence Order specifically dividing their time between their parents.
• A Contact Order, identifying how much time the children should spend with each of their parents on the basis that they permanently reside with one parent.
• A Specific Issue Order, to decide particular matters such as where and how a child should be educated.
• A Prohibitive Steps Order, to prevent an incident or action occurring, such as the removal of a child from England and Wales.
• Leave to Remove children from England and Wales.

In appropriate circumstances Orders can be made on an emergency basis.

For further information or advice please contact:

Charmaine Hast at our Epsom Office.

Karin Walker at our Guildford Tunsgate office.

Charlotte Adler at our Wimbledon office.

Demelza Patricio at our Reigate office.

Adoption

The adoption process is complex and will always require sensitive handling. Our adoption specialist will guide you through the maze of formalities involved in adopting a child - whether you are adopting alone, as a couple or adopting a step-child.  For further information or advice please contact:

Alex Davies at our Epsom office.