Child Law Solicitors
Putting arrangements for children in place that are in the best interests of your family
For couples going through a divorce or separation, one of the main sources of anxiety often relates to children. You will need to put new arrangements in place so that they split their time between both parents.
Orders made under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989, are decisions made by the court to help provide stability, clarity, and reassurance about a child’s day‑to‑day life when parents cannot reach an agreement themselves. The focus is always on what is in the best interests of the child.
Our child law advice and services include the following:
- Advising you on your options for child arrangements
- Negotiating child arrangements with their other parent’s solicitor
- Advising and supporting you through the mediation process in the event of contact disputes
- Agreeing on child arrangements and having the agreement sealed by the court into a binding child arrangements order
- Representing you in the event that a court hearing is required
- Advice and representation in respect of disputes or where a court order is breached
- Specific issue orders to resolve disagreements over particular matters
- Prohibited steps orders to prevent a parent from taking certain actions
We understand that your financial situation may be uncertain at this time, and to help with the costs, we offer fixed fee packages and payment plans to suit your circumstances.
What Orders Can Be Made
The court can make several types of Section 8 Orders depending on your family’s needs, including:
- Child Arrangements Orders — These set out where a child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. They can also cover practical details such as handover arrangements, holiday schedules, and communication.
- Specific Issue Orders — Used when parents disagree about a particular aspect of a child’s upbringing, such as schooling, medical treatment, or religious matters. The court decides the issue based on what best supports the child’s welfare.
- Prohibited Steps Orders — These prevent a parent from taking a particular action without the court’s permission, such as moving a child to a different area or taking them abroad.
How Bell Lamb & Joynson Can Help
We understand how emotionally charged children matters can be. Our family law team offers clear, practical advice to help you understand your rights and the options available. Whether you’re trying to agree arrangements, responding to an application, or seeking an order yourself, we’ll guide you through the process with empathy, honesty, and a focus on achieving the best outcome for your child.
Child Law FAQ's
Get in Touch
Get in touch with our child law solicitors in Liverpool City Centre, Liverpool North, Runcorn, Warrington, Maghull & Ashton-in-Makerfield.
For an informal chat about how we can help you, contact us in one of the following ways:
Call 03444 124348 | Ask us a Question
We’re happy to speak to you by phone, email or via video call on Microsoft Teams.
Or if you prefer, please feel free to come into one of our offices in Liverpool City Centre, Liverpool North, Maghull, Runcorn, Warrington and Ashton-in-Makerfield, where we will be happy to assist you further.