Children's Legal Services

At Peters Langsford Davies we have extensive experience of advising clients on the best course of action to resolve childcare issues following the breakdown of a relationship.

If you were married to each other when the children were born, or married later, then you both have equal parental responsibility. If you have never married, then it may be that only the mother has parental responsibility initially, although the father can make a formal agreement to share responsibility. Alternatively, the father can apply to court for parental responsibility.

If court intervention is necessary, the court will decide what is best for the child. They will take the child’s wishes and feelings into account. A Family Court Adviser will usually compile a report for the court after meetings with both the parents and children.

The court can make a number of orders covering such matters as with whom the child will live, contact with any other person and also decide specific issues such as schooling and medical treatment. They may also advise on any prohibited steps such as living abroad.

Please contact us for more information on how we can help you with legal advice relating to matters of childcare.

By telephone, call Ian Langsford, the head of our Family team, or Georgia Plummer, on 01566 772451. Alternatively, call in to see us at our offices in The Old Police Station, Westgate Street or email us at family@peterslangsforddavies.com