Child contact issues over Christmas Period

The Christmas period is fast approaching and it can often be a difficult time for separated parents when trying to reach an agreement with regards to contact arrangements for children.

It is important to communicate effectively and do so in advance of Christmas, ensuring that all arrangements are organised and confirmed before time runs out.

Stephanie Smart, paralegal in the family team at Wake Smith Solicitors, looks at how best to deal with child contact issues over the festive period.

This article covers:

• Planning ahead
• Travel
• Struggling to reach an agreement?
• A Child Arrangement Order
• Your next move?

Planning ahead

Create a detailed plan of dates and times, to avoid any confusion or disagreements.

Make decisions in the best interests of the children and think about what is important to them at such a special time of year.

 

Travel

It is common that children share the time with both sides of the family, however, this may be difficult logistically in terms of travel. Try to be flexible and compromise on a fair arrangement, often parents reach an agreement that means days are alternated each year which also establishes a clear routine for the children. For example, if one parent has the child on Christmas Day, the other may celebrate on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day or New Years, which would then alternate the following year.

Struggling to reach an agreement?

If you are struggling to reach an agreement, consider attending mediation to work towards a solution, or instruct solicitors to put forward your proposals. It is best that your agreement is in writing.

A Child Arrangement Order

If you have attempted mediation/ negotiation and both have been unsuccessful, it may be that an application to Court is required for a Child Arrangements Order, to allow the Judge to determine arrangements for the child, with reference to special occasions and the Christmas period.

You may already have an Order in place and be worried that the other parent may breach the festive contact arrangement, in which you need to obtain legal advice as soon as possible

 

Your next move?

Are you a separated parent wanting to confirm arrangements for Christmas for your child with an ex-partner?

Stephanie Smart, paralegal in the Family Law team at Wake Smith Solicitors, specialises in private children matters including with whom a child should live, and who they should spend time with (Child Arrangement Orders), Specific Issue Orders (SIO) for example passport applications and ownership, travelling aboard, Prohibited Steps Orders (PSO) including relocation, schooling, and safeguarding and welfare concerns.

For further advice contact Stephanie Smart on 0114 266 6660 or email [email protected]

For further information on our family law services click here

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