child arrangement order

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Child Arrangement Order

Making the process easier

Many parents in dispute think they need to head straight to court when there is a potential disagreement on family matters. However, the government recognized a significant influx of people making unnecessary applications for court orders. In response, the UK government reformed family law, replacing residence and contact orders with the more streamlined “Child Arrangement Order.”

This change was designed to simplify the process and focus on the best interests of the child, helping families resolve disputes more amicably. If you’re in this situation, it’s essential to understand what a Child Arrangement Order entails, how it works, and why mediation is often the best first step before considering court intervention.

What Is Child Arrangement Order?

A Child Arrangement Order is a legally binding court order that outlines where a child will live, details about contact arrangements, and the time they’ll spend with each parent or other significant individuals in their life.

The order can include:

  • Living arrangements: Which parent the child will reside with, either full-time or shared.
  • Contact schedules: How, when, and where the child will spend time with the other parent or anyone else involved in their care.

Child Arrangement Orders are divided into two key categories:

  1. Living Arrangements: Determining with whom the child will live.
  2. Contact Arrangements: Defining how the child will spend time or have contact with others, including direct and indirect forms of communication such as visits, phone calls, or digital messages.
Divorce Mediation and Child Arrangement Orders

divorce mediation and child arrangement orders

When couples separate, disputes over children’s living arrangements can quickly become contentious. In many cases, emotions run high, making it challenging to reach agreements. This is where mediation becomes a critical tool.

Mediation offers parents a way to resolve these disputes in a calm, neutral environment, guided by a trained mediator. It focuses on finding solutions that work for both parties while prioritising the children’s well-being.

why do i need a child arrangement order?

A Child Arrangement Order is often necessary when parents or guardians cannot agree on where the child will live or how they will maintain contact with both parents. While similar to the older “residence orders” and “contact orders,” the Child Arrangement Order provides a more holistic framework.

Under normal circumstances, you would usually need to seek permission from the court to make a request for Child Arrangement Order. However, under the checklist set out in section 8 of the act, it allows some certain groups of people who can make an application without seeking permission. They include parents and guardians or anyone who has lived with the child for three years and above.

Key benefits of the order include:

  • Clarity: A legally binding arrangement that outlines specific responsibilities and schedules.
  • Enforceability: The ability to ensure both parties comply with the agreed terms.
  • Protection: A safeguard to ensure the child’s best interests are legally recognized and prioritized.

Contact under the order can take different forms, including:

  • Direct Contact: Face-to-face meetings or shared activities.
  • Indirect Contact: Communication through phone calls, text messages, emails, or even letters.

Mediation is an affordable way of solving problems and getting the best approach to a problem outside court. It is highly effective when it comes to problems related to children. Anyone who wants to apply for a child arrangement order should speak to a mediator in the first instance to discuss a MIAM. Speak to our team today to find out how mediation can help.

court considerations for child arrangements

When parents face challenges agreeing on arrangements for their children after separation, the court may seem like the only solution. However, mediation is a vital step to consider before applying for a Child Arrangement Order. In fact, it’s usually a legal requirement to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) unless exempt.

Mediation provides a structured and confidential environment where both parents can discuss issues such as living arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making responsibilities. With the support of a trained mediator, parents are empowered to reach practical and mutually beneficial agreements, keeping the focus on their children’s best interests.

Unlike court proceedings, mediation is often quicker, less expensive, and less stressful. It encourages cooperation and lays the groundwork for better communication in the future—essential for co-parenting. If an agreement cannot be reached, the mediator will provide the necessary certification to proceed with a Child Arrangement Order application.

When parents struggle to agree on their children’s arrangements, mediation is often the first and most crucial step. In fact, attending a MIAM is usually a legal requirement before applying for a Child Arrangement Order unless exempt.

This meeting helps parents understand:

  • The benefits of mediation.
  • How it works and what to expect during sessions.
  • Whether mediation is suitable for their specific situation.

By encouraging communication and cooperation, mediation aims to resolve disputes without the need for court intervention.

Aspire Family Mediation is here to guide you every step of the way. Take the first step toward resolution by calling us at 01908 966 008 or completing our simple contact form. We’re ready to help you find the best path forward for your family.


Mediation before Applying for Child Arrangement Order.

When making a decision, courts prioritize the child’s welfare above all else. Judges consider factors such as:

  • The child’s wishes and feelings, depending on their age and maturity.
  • The child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs.
  • The potential impact of any changes to their living situation.
  • The capability of each parent to meet the child’s needs.

The court’s goal is to create an arrangement that supports the child’s stability and ongoing relationships with both parents.

When I and my ex-wife decided to get separated, we were really worried about our little daughter, butI am thankful to these people, they sorted arrangements.
– Ethan
I never felt any issues through my divorce process, thanks to the mediation provided by Aspire Family Mediation. Now I feel like were moving forward.
– Charlie