We help you move forward with structure and clarity — whether you’re trying to reach agreement, want arrangements made legally binding, or court is likely. You don’t need to know which route applies. We’ll help you identify the right next step.
Children’s matters are often the most emotionally charged part of a separation. Our approach is to focus on what is in the best interests of the child, while making sure your position and rights are clearly understood and properly represented.
Courts in England & Wales make decisions based on the welfare of the child as the paramount consideration. We structure our advice around the same principle — helping you understand what is likely to be considered, what a court would expect to see, and how to present your position clearly.
Where possible, we encourage constructive approaches — direct negotiation, mediation, or solicitor-led discussions — to avoid the cost, delay, and emotional toll of contested court proceedings.
Best if
You think agreement is possible, but communication is difficult or support is needed.
What we do
Outcome
A workable agreement built around your child’s needs.
Based on complexity and route.Best if
You’ve reached agreement and want certainty going forward.
What we do
Outcome
A legally binding court order based on what you’ve agreed.
Fixed fees available — contact us for a quote.Best if
Agreement isn’t possible, or there are safety or welfare concerns.
What we do
Outcome
A court-determined Child Arrangements Order.
Final costs depend on complexity and number of hearings.If there is a Child Arrangements Order in place specifying that a child lives with you, you can generally move within England & Wales without permission. However, if the move significantly affects the other parent’s contact, they may apply to court. We can advise on the implications of a planned move and help you manage the process correctly.
Relocating abroad with a child is a significant legal step. You generally need the written consent of everyone with parental responsibility, or a court order (a Specific Issue Order). Taking a child abroad without consent can constitute child abduction. We advise on relocation applications and, where necessary, international child abduction cases under the Hague Convention.
If you have urgent concerns about your child’s safety or welfare, legal protection is available quickly. Emergency applications — including Prohibited Steps Orders and emergency injunctions — can be made to the court, sometimes on the same day. Contact us as soon as possible and we will advise on the right immediate steps.
Speak to us urgently →A court order that sets out where a child lives and how they spend time with each parent or other significant adult. It can be made by consent (if you agree) or determined by the court if you don’t.
Not always. Most cases require a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before court. Many resolve through agreement, solicitor-led negotiation, or mediation — without contested proceedings.
Speak to us as soon as possible. Emergency applications including Prohibited Steps Orders or non-molestation orders can be made urgently — sometimes the same day — if there’s a real risk of harm.
For a holiday, generally yes — but you usually need the written consent of everyone with parental responsibility (or a court order). For relocation, the bar is higher and a Specific Issue Order may be required.
The legal rights, duties and responsibilities a parent has in respect of a child — including making decisions about education, medical treatment, and religion. Mothers have it automatically; fathers in certain circumstances or by agreement / court order.
Yes. Arrangements can be varied by agreement at any time, or you can apply to court if circumstances change significantly — for example a move, change of school, or evolving needs as the child grows.
A court order that prevents a parent from taking a particular step without the court’s consent — such as removing the child from the country, changing their school, or changing their surname.
Enforcement options include applying to court for an enforcement order, unpaid work, fines, or compensation orders. We’ll advise on the most proportionate route and gather the evidence required.
A Strategy Session with SKB Law is a focused, solicitor-led meeting. You’ll leave with a clear picture of where you stand, your options, and a written action plan.