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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.

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

Isobel Massey goes the extra mile for her clients and is extremely well prepared. She is very helpful for counsel and writes detailed and clear instructions, while also keeping counsel in the loop regarding bundles.

Legal 500 UK 2025

Isobel had an amazing ability to ignore all the peripheral noise to home in on detail that was important to the children and their needs. At the same time she managed to make the seemingly impossible conversations easy and comfortable. She finds the silver linings in the darkest of moments. I am eternally grateful.

Family Client

It was a long hard slog but it all came good in the end and I can never thank you enough for what you have done for me.

Mrs T