We Offer Peace of Mind…
We get it – If you have children and you are divorcing or separating, then they will be your top priority and your biggest worry. We understand, we have children too.
From our years of experience, we’ve observed that in every case, parents share similar concerns and priorities.
While every situation is unique, the common thread from parents in every family breakdown is ensuring the well-being of their children. We appreciate that you will want to minimise the impact on the children during this unsettling period and we’re here to help you achieve that.
However, family breakdowns can stir up a lot of emotions and it’s sometimes tough for parents to see eye to eye. That’s where we come in – to help you cut through the chaos, keep a clear head, and find agreements that put your children first.
We understand the importance of open communication between parents when it comes to child arrangements and so meeting with us as a couple as early as possible to talk over concerns would be the ideal way forward. However, we appreciate this may not always be possible. Whether individually or as a couple, we are here to provide support and guidance.
Feel free to reach out to us and we’ll arrange a time to talk about what’s going on. No two children or families are alike, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. We’re here to work out something that’s right for you and, most importantly, your children.
When breaking the news to your children we feel that honesty and simplicity are key. They need to have age-appropriate information about what is going to be happening but there’s no need for complicated details. It’s crucial to reassure them of the ongoing love and support from you both and to encourage open communication between you all. We can help you navigate these conversations with sensitivity so as you can lay the groundwork for an easier transition.
There are lots but there are a few key points to always bear in mind. Communication is fundamental; keeping an open dialogue with each other about the children’s needs and schedules lays a strong foundation. If you find communication tricky then make use of modern technology such as shared calendars or parenting apps. Flexibility is crucial as life can be unpredictable and what works for your children will change dramatically as they grow. Always keep the focus on the children and encourage positive interactions with each other and extended family. Remember it’s a team effort centred on what’s best for the children.
Ideally, you do! You’re the experts when it comes to your children, and you know what arrangements will suit them best. The problems occur when both parents don’t agree on what those arrangements should be. We will always encourage open discussions and negotiations to try and reach a sensible compromise that always puts the children’s best interests at the heart of the agreement and we use the expertise of other professionals; mediators and family counsellors to help us achieve this.
If an agreement really can’t be reached, then the court can be asked to make decisions, but we really view this as the last resort as court proceedings inevitably heighten tensions and court involvement ends up being highly disruptive for the entire family.
For most families, a court order for child arrangements isn’t necessary. Court orders are only necessary if agreements can’t be reached amicably, and the court needs to step in to make decisions.
Once again, hopefully, these decisions can be made jointly between you direct. If, however, agreement on, for example, what school your child should attend is proving challenging then we would recommend mediation in the first instance to address differing opinions in the hope agreement could be reached. If parents are unable to agree on such important areas after all
attempts at negotiation has been made then court intervention can be sought via a Specific Issue application to establish a resolution that is in the best interests of the child.
