Child custody solicitors in Sheffield

Family Lawyers you can rely on

At Wake Smith Solicitors, we help you put your children first.

We know just how emotional and overwhelming child custody issues can be. This is why whether you're going through a separation or just need to clarify your parental rights, our approachable and experienced family law team is here to give you the answers you need and support you every step of the way.

What makes our child custody solicitors different?

We’re proud to be based in Sheffield. We’ve been helping families just like yours across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire for generations.  When you choose us, you’re not just getting legal advice, you’re getting a team that understands you and genuinely cares about your family’s future.

We may be lawyers but we’re much more than that. We’re listeners, problem-solvers and advocates for your children’s best interests.

We are also as accessible as we are approachable. Our team always responds quickly, often offering a free initial consultation within 24 hours, so you’re never left waiting when you need help most.

Most of all, clients choose us for our clear advice, our compassionate approach and track record for securing our clients the best possible outcomes, even in the most complex and emotionally driven cases.

How can we help you?

We deal with all aspects of child custody and child arrangements including:

• Where your child will live
• How often they’ll see each parent
• Decisions about schooling, travel, medical care and religion
• Preventing actions you don’t agree with (like relocation)

We’ll always try to resolve things amicably through negotiation or mediation, but if court becomes necessary, we’ll stand by your side and fight for what’s right for your children.

What to expect when you contact us

Getting started is simple.  

First, we’ll offer a free initial chat to find out about your situation and what you want to achieve. Then we’ll give you clear, practical advice tailored to your needs.  From there, we’ll guide you through the process, whether it involves reaching an agreement or preparing for court.

And at every stage, we’ll keep things straightforward and sympathetic while making sure you are fully supported as you work towards achieving what matters most, your child’s wellbeing.

Are you ready to talk?

If you’re facing a child custody issue and want expert help from a local team who truly understands what you’re going through, we’re here for you.

Use the contact us form to submit an online enquiry, or call us on 0114 266 2185 to speak to our divorce team. 

FAQs

Can my ex stop me seeing my child?

The Court will always encourage a parent to spend time with a child as long as the time is in the child’s best interest. If the other parent has stopped you from seeing your child, then you should seek advice from a solicitor as soon as possible. Usually, unless there is good reason for the other parent’s refusal, a solicitor should be able to negotiate arrangements between you and the other parent. However, if an application to the court does become necessary then leaving it too long before making an application to the court can cause added issues and so it is always better to seek assistance from a solicitor or the court sooner rather than later.

Is it the law that a child(ren) should spend equal time (shared care) with both parents after separation?

It is presumed that the welfare of a child(ren) which is the court’s paramount concern will be furthered if both parents are involved subject to this not causing harm to a child(ren). This does not necessarily mean however that a child(ren) must spend equal amounts of time with each parent and, if agreement cannot be reached the court will look at the individual circumstances of the child(ren) and decide what is in their particular best interests.

Can the other parent stop me taking my child abroad?

If you are a parent of a child and the other parent has parental responsibility then the other parent can prohibit you from taking your child abroad without their consent. If you have a residence order or a live with order then you can take your child abroad for a period of 28 days without the other parent’s consent. If the other parent is refusing to allow you to take your child on holiday abroad then you will need to make an application to the court for a specific issue order allowing you to remove your child from the jurisdiction for a holiday, otherwise this could be viewed as a criminal offence of child abduction.