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Finding the right way forward

If you and your partner are struggling to agree, there are several ways to resolve disputes without going straight to court. We can help you explore options such as:

Mediation – including hybrid mediation, where your solicitor supports you during the process
Collaborative law
Negotiation between solicitors
Arbitration
Court proceedings, if necessary

We will guide you toward the approach that’s right for your family.

How we can help

Our experienced children law solicitors can support you with:

Contact disputes

Parental responsibility

Parental alienation

Children's Hearings

Adoption

Emergency Orders

Child care proceedings and Social Services involvement

Relocation and child abduction

We will work with you to protect your child’s long-term interests and help you find the right path forward - whether through agreement or court intervention.

What is a Child Arrangements Order?

If you cannot agree on where your child should live or how much time they spend with each parent, the court can make a Child Arrangements Order. This replaces older terms like “custody” or “contact.”

The court can also help with:

Specific issues – such as which school your child should attend or whether their surname should change
Prohibited steps – such as preventing a parent from taking a child abroad without consent.

In some cases, grandparents or other family members may be involved. The court may also appoint a Children’s Guardian to represent your child’s interests.

What will the court consider?

The court’s main concern is always the welfare of the child. It will consider:

Your child’s wishes and feelings (depending on their age and understanding)
Their physical, emotional, and educational needs
The likely impact of any changes to their home or routine
Their age, background, and any relevant characteristics
Any risk of harm
How well each parent (or other carer) can meet their needs

In some cases, Social Services may become involved if there are concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing.

I met with Charlotte through an application of special guardianship for my grandson. Instantly I was made to feel supported, amazing communication from her throughout the whole process, today we won and I am forever thankful to Charlotte and the team for the support and dedication they provided to me and my family. Reception staff always helpful when trying to communicate with Charlotte, the whole service was flawless, supportive and I would highly recommend this service. Excellent team and excellent support.

Mrs B

I would thoroughly recommend Porter Dodson to anyone needing to find a solicitor who they could trust to act to a high standard for them. I received a friendly, welcoming smile from the receptionists as soon as I entered the offices. Julia handled my divorce proceedings very professionally, with care, concern and understanding. I have a very high regard for her, I know I could never have had a better solicitor acting for me. Julia's assistants are also very professional, helpful and friendly. As Marks and Spencer say ‘There's food, and there's M&S food’ well I can honestly say ‘There's solicitors, and there's Porter Dodson solicitors.’ Top quality professionalism throughout from the solicitors, their assistants and the receptionists. I cannot thank them enough.

Family Client

Isobel represented me through a complex two-year family law case. From the start, her legal expertise and focus on my children’s welfare were clear. As proceedings grew complicated, she remained calm, strategic, and remarkably efficient. Isobel offered honest, fair advice and built a true partnership based on trust. After an exceptionally long and difficult process, we achieved everything we set out to accomplish. I am enormously grateful for her resilience and guidance, and recommend her without hesitation.

Family Client

We used Porter Dodson in Bridport for a Declaration of Trust. Karen Watts was both kind and professional throughout. She explained everything to us very clearly, and having her to guide us through the process made it straightforward and reassuring. All the team are so courteous and helpful, we will always use and recommend them. Sincere thanks again.

Maureen