Child Arrangements
Cheltenham child arrangements solicitors
At Pembridge Solicitors, we advise parents and carers on child arrangements, helping them understand how decisions about children are made and how arrangements can be agreed or resolved. We support clients across Cheltenham, providing clear, practical advice focused on the best interests of the child.
Disagreements about children can arise at many stages, including following separation, divorce, or changes in family circumstances. Our role is to help you understand your options, explain how the law approaches child arrangements, and guide you towards a workable outcome that prioritises stability and welfare.
Whether matters can be resolved by agreement or require formal steps, we take a calm and measured approach tailored to your situation.
Types of divorce and separation in the UK
Child arrangements deal with where a child lives, how time is shared between parents, and how ongoing contact is managed. The law focuses on the child’s welfare above all else, rather than the preferences or disagreements of adults.
Arrangements may be agreed informally between parents, recorded in writing, or, where agreement is not possible, determined by the court. Each family’s circumstances are different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our solicitors advise on how arrangements can be structured in a way that is realistic, appropriate, and in the child’s best interests.
The child arrangements process explained
In many cases, child arrangements can be agreed without court involvement. Parents may reach an agreement directly or with the support of legal advice, setting out how care and contact will work in practice.
Where agreement cannot be reached, there are formal steps that must usually be considered before making a court application. If court proceedings become necessary, the court will consider all relevant factors and make decisions based on what is best for the child, taking into account their needs, routine and wellbeing.
Your solicitor will explain each stage of the process clearly, advise you on what is required, and ensure you understand how decisions are reached.
How we manage child arrangements matters
Once instructed, your solicitor will take responsibility for advising you on the appropriate steps, communicating clearly with you throughout, and progressing matters in a proportionate and focused way.
Where cooperation is possible, we aim to help arrangements be agreed without unnecessary conflict. Where difficulties arise, we will advise you on the options available and guide you through the process calmly and professionally, always keeping the focus on the child’s welfare.
How we manage child arrangements matters
Court involvement is not always necessary, but it may be required where agreement cannot be reached or where there are concerns that need formal resolution.
If this becomes necessary, your solicitor will explain what to expect, how decisions are made, and how the court assesses what is in a child’s best interests. We provide clear guidance throughout and ensure you are supported at every stage.
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0330 900 0377
Clear, confidential advice on child arrangements. Speak to an experienced solicitor to understand your options and next steps.
Common Common questions about child arrangements about divorce
Parents often raise similar questions when dealing with child arrangements. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns we are asked.
How does the court decide what is best for a child?
When making decisions about child arrangements, the court’s primary consideration is the child’s welfare. This means the court looks at what will best support the child’s wellbeing, stability and development, rather than focusing on the wishes or disagreements of the adults involved.
Factors considered can include the child’s needs, their routine, schooling, emotional wellbeing, and the ability of each parent to meet those needs. Every case is considered on its own facts, and decisions are made with the child’s long-term interests in mind.
What can I do if I think my spouse is hiding assets?
When making decisions about child arrangements, the court’s primary consideration is the child’s welfare. This means the court looks at what will best support the child’s wellbeing, stability and development, rather than focusing on the wishes or disagreements of the adults involved.
Factors considered can include the child’s needs, their routine, schooling, emotional wellbeing, and the ability of each parent to meet those needs. Every case is considered on its own facts, and decisions are made with the child’s long-term interests in mind.
Do child arrangements always require a court order?
No. Many parents are able to agree child arrangements without the need for court involvement. Informal agreements can work well where communication remains constructive and both parents are committed to putting the child’s needs first.
Court orders are usually considered only where agreement cannot be reached, arrangements are breaking down, or there are concerns that need formal resolution. Legal advice can help you understand whether a court application is necessary in your situation.
Can child arrangements change over time?
Yes. Child arrangements are not fixed forever. As children grow older, their needs, routines and circumstances often change, and arrangements may need to be reviewed to reflect this.
Changes such as starting school, changes in working patterns, or relocation can all affect how arrangements work in practice. Advice can help ensure that any changes are approached sensibly and remain focused on the child’s best interests.
What if communication with the other parent is difficult?
Difficult communication is common, particularly following separation. Where this makes agreeing or maintaining arrangements challenging, legal advice can help clarify your options and provide guidance on how matters can be progressed appropriately.
In some cases, structured arrangements or formal steps may be needed to ensure stability for the child. The aim is always to reduce conflict and keep the focus on the child’s welfare rather than ongoing disputes between parents.
Can I get advice even if arrangements are already in place?
Yes. You can seek advice at any stage, whether arrangements are informal, recorded in writing, or set out in a court order. Advice can help you understand your position, identify whether arrangements remain appropriate, and consider what steps may be available if changes are needed.
Where we serve
Our child arrangements solicitors advise clients across Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury, as well as the surrounding areas. We provide advice both in person and remotely, allowing matters to progress without unnecessary delay.
Speak to child arrangements solicitors in Cheltenham
If you need advice on child arrangements or would like guidance on the next steps, our solicitors are here to help. We provide clear, practical advice with discretion and professionalism.
To speak to one of our child arrangements solicitors, call 0330 900 0377 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.
How to Find Us
Pembridge Solicitors
Calderwood House
Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA