Child Arrangement Order Solicitors
- Experienced family law solicitors specialising in Child Arrangement Orders
- Over 1,000 cases handled in 25+ years across the UK
- Expert guidance on child custody, contact, residence and shared care
- Committed to achieving the best outcome for your child through negotiation or court
- Clear, supportive guidance every step of the way
- Transparent fees and flexible payment plans
- Professional court representation
- Members of The Law Society
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We do not offer Legal Aid.
We will always get the best possible result for our clients!
We represent you with a proactive & forward-thinking mindset.
Expert Guidance on Child Custody
Expert Guidance on Child Custody
Child arrangement matters can be emotionally complex and legally challenging, especially during or after a separation or divorce. Questions around who the child will live with, how often they’ll see each of you and how major decisions will be made can quickly become contentious. Navigating these sensitive issues without legal support can place unnecessary strain on families.
With the right child arrangement solicitors, making arrangements for your children doesn’t have to be quite so stressful. An experienced family team can advise on parental responsibility for one party or both and mediate to help you overcome any child arrangement disputes with your former partner.
At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors in London, our experienced family law solicitors offer clear, compassionate guidance on child custody. We work closely with you to protect your child’s welfare while pursuing a fair and practical solution. Whether through negotiation, mediation or formal court proceedings, we provide tailored legal support to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
For a free discussion with our child arrangement order solicitors, contact us today at [email protected] or call 0203 983 5080. You can also visit our offices in Piccadilly, Harrow, Canary Wharf and Manchester. Book your 30-minute consultation.
Free Initial Consultation
Payment Plan Options
Clear Advice
Swift Resolution
Understanding Child Arrangement Orders
A Child Arrangement Order (CAO) is a legal order issued by the Court under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989. Its purpose is to regulate the living and contact arrangements for a child when parents or guardians cannot reach an agreement themselves. It can determine who the child lives with, spends time with or otherwise has contact with and how often those arrangements take place.
These orders are designed to ensure stability and safeguard the child’s best interests during what can often be a disruptive or emotionally difficult time. Straightforward CAOs are commonly used in cases of separation or divorce. But more specialist child arrangements may also be necessary in situations involving extended family members, safeguarding concerns or when you or your former partner wishes to relocate with the child.
The court’s priority in any application for a Child Arrangement Order is the child’s welfare. Decisions around arrangements for your child are never made lightly and require careful legal navigation to ensure a fair and balanced outcome for all parties involved.
When Is a Child Arrangement Order Needed?
While many parents can successfully agree on childcare arrangements after a separation, there are times when disputes arise and legal intervention becomes necessary. A Child Arrangement Order may be needed if you or your ex-partner denies contact, there is confusion over shared responsibilities, child maintenance or safety concerns exist about the wellbeing of the child.
Some of the most common scenarios include:
- One parent preventing the other from seeing or contacting the child
- Disagreements over where the child should live
- Concerns about the welfare of a child in one household
- Issues surrounding school choices, travel arrangements or religious upbringing
Even in less contentious cases, a formal legal order can provide clarity and reduce the risk of future disputes. It sets out legally enforceable terms that you and your former partner must follow, offering reassurance and structure during a challenging period.
If you find yourself at an impasse with the other parent or you’re worried that informal arrangements are no longer in your child’s best interest, seeking legal advice is an important next step.
The Court Process for Obtaining a CAO
The process for securing a Child Arrangement Order begins with attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is a legal requirement in most cases and aims to explore whether the dispute can be resolved through mediation rather than court proceedings. If mediation is not suitable or unsuccessful, an application can then be made to the Court.
To apply, you will need to complete and submit Form C100, alongside any supporting documents. In some cases, especially where there are concerns about domestic abuse or child protection, supplementary forms such as Form C1A may also be required.
Once the application is received, the court will schedule an initial hearing. Both parties will have the opportunity to present their views and the court may ask for input from Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service), who will assess the child’s life and family circumstances before making recommendations.
Further hearings may follow, depending on the complexity of the case and whether agreement can be reached. If a final order is made, it becomes legally binding and enforceable by law. At every stage of the court process, having an experienced family solicitor can help you prepare thoroughly, understand your rights and present your case clearly and effectively.
Factors the Court Considers
When making decisions about a Child Arrangement Order, the court’s primary concern is always the welfare of the child. This is assessed using the “welfare checklist” outlined in the Children Act 1989. The checklist includes several important factors, such as:
- The child’s physical, emotional and educational needs
- The likely effect of any changes in the child’s circumstances
- The child’s age, sex, background and characteristics
- Any harm the child has suffered or is at risk of suffering
- The capability of each parent to meet the child’s needs
The child’s wishes and feelings may also be considered, depending on their age and level of understanding. Older children are more likely to have their views taken into account, although they are not the sole deciding factor.
It is essential to present a clear and well-documented case, particularly if there are concerns around safeguarding or parental suitability. Our child arrangement solicitors help ensure your voice is heard and your child’s welfare remains the central focus.
Types of Orders and Their Implications
Child Arrangement Orders can cover a range of practical matters, with the most common types being:
- Live With Orders
This order determines where the child lives primarily. It may be made in favour of one parent (sole residence) or both separated parents (shared residence), depending on the circumstances and the child’s best interests.
- Spend Time With Orders
These orders outline when and how the child will spend time with the other parent or members of their extended family. This may include face-to-face visits, overnight stays, phone or video contact and holiday arrangements.
- Prohibited Steps Orders & Specific Issue Orders
Although separate from Child Arrangement Orders, these related orders often appear in the same proceedings. A Prohibited Steps Order restricts a parent from taking a particular action (e.g. relocating the child abroad), while a Specific Issue Order resolves one-off disputes, such as where a child should go to school.
- Special Guardianship Order
Grandparents and other immediate family members usually apply for this order when children are not provided with sufficient care from their parents.
- Prohibited Steps Order
Prohibited Steps Orders are often made to prevent children from being removed from the country. This can include an order to prevent the child from leaving the country.
- Enforcement of Contact
An Enforcement Order may be necessary if a Contact Order is being breached.
- Specific Issue Order
When parents are in disagreement on a particular aspect of their children’s upbringing i.e. which school the children should go to. They apply for Specific Issue Order.
- Father's Rights
Our family team also specialise in defending fathers’ rights. We specialise in advising fathers on what their legal rights are during separation or divorce.
Transparent Fees for Child Arrangement Solicitors
Free consultation Via Zoom or Face to Face: We offer a 30-minute free consultation.
Fixed Fees Areas
We charge fixed fees in the given areas
- Divorce Petition (uncontested) working for the petitioner £850 + VAT + court fee
- Divorce Petition (uncontested) Working for the respondent £750 + VAT
Hourly Charges
Exceptional legal consultancy
- Children Matter: Solicitor’s Hourly Rate: £220 – £250 Plus VAT
- Financial Settlement Solicitor’s Hourly Rate: £220 – £250 Plus VAT
Enforcing and Varying a CAO
Sometimes, one party breaches the terms of an existing Child Arrangement Order. In such cases, the order can be enforced through the court, which may impose penalties or vary contact arrangements to ensure the child’s welfare is not compromised.
Equally, if circumstances change – for example, a parent relocates or the child’s needs evolve – a variation of the order can be requested. This requires an application to the court and a demonstration that the proposed changes are in the child’s best interests.
Our specialist lawyers assist with both enforcement and variation proceedings, ensuring that any legal action you take is proportionate, appropriate and focused on your child’s wellbeing.
What Osbourne Pinner Can Do for You in Rent Review Disputes
Legal Advice and Support
Our family law solicitors offer clear, practical legal guidance on Child Arrangement Orders.
Constructive Negotiation
We prioritise amicable resolutions whenever possible, working with both parties to agree on living and contact arrangements.
Court Representation
When court proceedings are necessary, our family lawyers provide strong, strategic representation.
Transparent Fixed Fees
Our fixed fees ensure you understand the costs involved, with no hidden charges or unexpected legal bills.
Reliable and Accurate Handling
Handling your case with care and precision, our family law team avoids delays, errors or decisions that could impact your child’s future.
Prompt and Accessible Support
We respond to all client queries within 24 hours with consultations in person or remotely via Zoom.
Schedule Your Complimentary 30-Minute Consultation
Our Child Arrangement Order solicitors provide expert legal advice to help you reach the best outcome for your child and family. Whether you need family mediation, assistance with a court application or representation to negotiate arrangements, our family law experts are here to help.
Claim your free 30-minute consultation, available in person at our offices in Piccadilly Circus (Central London), Harrow (North London) or Canary Wharf (East London) – or via video call – to discuss your case and understand your options.
To arrange your consultation with our family lawyers, email us at [email protected], call 0203 983 5080 or complete our online form.
- Committed to safeguarding your child’s wellbeing
- Compassionate, strategic support during separation or divorce
- Transparent, fixed fee structure with flexible payment plans
- Claim your free 30-minute consultation
BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION
We do not offer Legal Aid.
Child Arrangement Order FAQs
You should consider applying for a Child Arrangement Order if you and the other parent (or guardian) cannot agree on where the child will live, how much time they’ll spend with each parent or other key aspects of their care. Early legal advice can help you understand your options and avoid unnecessary conflict or delays.
Not always. You and your ex-partner must usually attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court, unless there are safeguarding concerns. If arrangements for your children can be made through mediation, a court order may not be necessary. However, when disputes cannot be resolved, applying for a CAO through the Family Court becomes the next step.
A CAO typically covers who the child will live with, how often they’ll see the other parent and the details of contact arrangements. It can also include specifics such as school holidays, birthdays and communication methods.
A CAO usually remains in place until the child turns 16 or 18 in exceptional cases. However orders can be varied or discharged earlier if circumstances change or by agreement of the parties with court approval.
Yes. If your circumstances change – such as a parent relocating or concerns over welfare – you can apply to the court to vary the order. Our family team can help guide you through this process and ensure the changes support your child’s safety and best interests.
We offer fixed-fee pricing for many of our services, including Child Arrangement Orders. Costs can vary depending on the complexity of your case but we always provide a transparent breakdown of fees upfront, along with flexible payment options.
