Child Law
Area of Law
Child Law
Disputes involving children are often emotionally charged and require sensitive, expert legal guidance. At MD Law in Cardiff, we understand the complexities of child law and are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation to families navigating these challenging situations.
Our Expertise:
We offer specialist advice and representation in a wide range of child law matters, including:
Contact & Residence Disputes:
Whether you are a parent seeking to establish or maintain contact with your child, or you are involved in a dispute over where your child should live, we can help. We can advise you on your rights and responsibilities, negotiate with the other party, and represent you in court if necessary. We strive to achieve outcomes that prioritise the child’s welfare and promote positive parent-child relationships.
Adoption:
Adopting a child is a significant and rewarding step. We can guide you through the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring all necessary procedures are followed correctly and efficiently. We act for both prospective adoptive parents and birth parents.
Special Guardianship Orders:
Special Guardianship Orders offer an alternative to adoption, providing long-term security for children within their extended family. We can advise you on the implications of a Special Guardianship Order and assist you with the application process.
Parental Responsibility:
We can advise you on all aspects of parental responsibility, including who has parental responsibility, what it entails, and how it can be acquired.
Our Approach:
At MD Law, we recognise that every child and family situation is unique. We are committed to providing a child-focused approach in all our cases. The child’s welfare is our paramount consideration throughout the course of any legal proceedings.
Our experienced solicitors are dedicated to providing clear, practical advice, explaining your options in plain English, and supporting you every step of the way.
We understand that these times can be incredibly challenging, and we are here to guide you through them with sensitivity and professionalism.
Contact Us Today:
Facing a child law issue can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact MD Law in Cardiff today to schedule a confidential consultation.
We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you take the first steps towards resolving your child law matter.
Get in touch to make an appointment and let us help you navigate this challenging time.
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Child Law
Frequently asked questions.
We understand that navigating child law matters can raise many questions. We’ve compiled some frequently asked questions below to provide you with general information. However, every family situation is unique, and your specific circumstances may require tailored legal advice. If you have a question that isn’t covered here, or if you’d like to discuss your situation in more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help.
What is parental responsibility, and who has it?
Parental responsibility means all the rights, duties, and authority a parent has in relation to a child. Mothers automatically have parental responsibility from birth. Fathers usually have parental responsibility if they are married to the mother at the time of the child’s birth, or if their name is on the child’s birth certificate (in some jurisdictions). Unmarried fathers can also acquire parental responsibility through a Parental Responsibility Agreement with the mother, or by applying to the court.
Click here to read our blog post that covers this question in more detail.
How do I arrange contact with my child after a separation?
Ideally, parents should try to agree on contact arrangements amicably. This can involve discussions between yourselves, or with the help of a mediator. If you can’t agree, you can apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order, which sets out who the child lives with and spends time with.
What happens if my child's other parent refuses to let me see them?
If you have a Child Arrangements Order in place, and the other parent is not complying with it, you can apply to the court for enforcement. The court can order the other parent to comply, or in more serious cases, make other orders. If you don’t have an order, you can apply for one.
Can I take my child to live in another part of the UK?
Generally, you can move within the UK with your child, as long as it doesn’t breach any existing court orders. However, it’s always best to discuss this with the other parent, especially if there’s a Child Arrangements Order in place. If the other parent objects, you may need to seek permission from the court.
What if I want to take my child to live abroad?
Moving a child to live in another country is a complex legal matter. You will usually need the consent of the other parent. If consent is not given, you must apply to the court for permission. The court’s primary concern will be the child’s welfare.
How do I apply for a Special Guardianship Order?
You can apply for a Special Guardianship Order if you are a family member or close friend of the child. The process involves assessments and reports, and the court will consider whether the order is in the child’s best interests. We can guide you through the application process.
What is adoption, and how does it work?
Adoption is a legal process where parental rights and responsibilities are transferred permanently to the adoptive parents. It involves assessments, matching, and court orders. We can advise you on all aspects of the adoption process.
My child's other parent is being abusive. What can I do to protect my child?
If your child is at risk of harm from the other parent, you should take immediate steps to protect them. This may involve contacting the police, social services, or seeking a Non-Molestation Order and/or an Occupation Order from the court. We can advise you on the best course of action.
How much will it cost to resolve my child law matter?
The cost of legal representation will vary depending on the complexity of your case. We offer various fee structures and will discuss these with you at your initial consultation.