Childcare Arrangements
This process involves arranging who the children will live with, as well as what contact they will have with the other parent. The childcare arrangement process can be broken down into four steps:
- Step 1 – Agree Childcare Arrangements – If possible during the divorce process, you should try to agree childcare arrangements with your spouse.
- Step 2 – Apply for Residence and/or Contact – If you are unable to agree any childcare arrangements, either you or your spouse will have to apply to the court for contact and/or residence orders. This decision is then left to the court to decide the childcare arrangements. If an investigation is required, a decision will be made after the court has heard evidence from both parties.
- Step 3 – Investigation – Once either you or your spouse have made an application to the court, a full investigation will take place. This investigation process involves both parents filing a written statements. The court will then appoint a CAFCASS officer to investigate and prepare a report for a final hearing. This social worker’s view is pivotal, and great care and skill is required in submitting your case. Their “touchy-feely” approach can be hard to take, and it is essential you keep your cool.
- Step 4 – Residency/Contact Court Order – A final hearing will be fixed once the investigation has been completed. At the final hearing, the court will listen to the evidence given, and if appropriate, make residence and/or contact orders.
At Hylton-Potts we have huge experience and skills in this field. We are cheaper and better than solicitors.
