What can I do to resolve the arrangements for my children without going to court?

At AFG LAW our family law team are members of resolution, child concern and include children law accredited specialists. This means we have the specialist knowledge to help resolve the arrangements for your children whilst understanding the importance of putting children first and dealing with matters in an amicable, constructive way. Our children solicitors will always discuss the potential for disagreements to be resolved outside of court, by either negotiation or mediation, but are also able to assist in making applications to court when needed.

Solicitor led negotiation

As part of negotiating your child arrangement issues our solicitors will discuss your concerns and aims, provide you with advice to ensure you understand the law in this area and then enter into negotiation with the other parent or their solicitor with your agreed, informed instructions. Our solicitors are always mindful of not only the immediate arrangements but the impact on future arrangements. We always approach negotiations in a constructive way whilst applying the relevant law and guidance.

Legal aid may be available in certain situations, contact our solicitors to find out more.

Mediation

If you attend mediation you will initially attend an appointment on your own called a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM); at this meeting the mediator will provide you with advice about the mediation process and discuss your situation. The other parent will then be invited to attend a MIAM and if the mediator is satisfied mediation is appropriate then a joint meeting will be scheduled. Our solicitors have good working relationships with several local mediators and can also support you during the mediation process. You should be aware that agreements reached in mediation are not legally binding.

It is important to note that the Family Court system is set up to encourage people to try mediation before they make an application for a court order. The application forms specifically ask whether the parties have attended mediation and the court can request the parties attempt to mediate if they have not done so. This is not appropriate in every case and our solicitors can give you advice about when you may be exempt from attending mediation.

Legal aid is available for mediation

What if negotiation and mediation haven’t worked?

If negotiation and mediation have not proven effective, our solicitors can advise you on making an application to the Family Court for a court order about your children. Our children solicitors at AFG Law can help you every step of the way