Child Arrangements at Christmas

Christmas should be a joyful and relaxing family time, but for many separated or divorced parents trying to juggle arrangements for children, this is simply not the case. Deciding how the children’s time will be spent with each parent over the festive period can be tricky. We suggest below some tips which may reduce the stresses around the decision-making.

Plan Early to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

Christmas is a busy time for families and solicitors alike. If you are seeking to arrange or adjust child arrangements for Christmas, it is best to start the conversation early. This will give you time to resolve any disputes or uncertainties and ensure that everyone, especially the children, knows what to expect.

If, as a last resort legal proceedings are needed, the courts may not be able to accommodate your case in time.

Consider the Child’s Best Interests

The paramount consideration in any child arrangement dispute is the welfare of the child. When contacting a solicitor, it is essential to focus on what is in the best interests of your child. The courts will place significant emphasis on ensuring that children enjoy quality time with both parents where it is safe to do so.

A solicitor can help you negotiate with the other parent to agree an arrangement that works for everyone. Whether it's alternating Christmas Day each year or splitting the day in half, or whatever arrangement is agreed, your solicitor can assist in negotiating with a child-focused approach.

Be prepared to compromise

It is essential to approach child arrangements in the spirit of cooperation. If you have a court order in place which does not specifically address Christmas or the arrangements need to be adjusted, a solicitor can help negotiate temporary changes to ensure that both parents spend time with the child.

Seek Legal Advice if Agreements Break Down

If you already have a child arrangements order in place and the other parent is not adhering to it during Christmas, you may need legal assistance to enforce the order. If you feel the existing order no longer reflects your child’s current needs, a solicitor can help you apply to the court to vary the order, as a last resort.

How a Solicitor Can Help You

• Legal Advice: A solicitor can provide expert advice on your legal standing, helping you to understand the options available for child arrangements.
• Mediation: If you and the other parent are struggling to come to an agreement, your solicitor can assist with a referral to mediation. This can help to resolve issues in a less hostile environment, with both parties having the opportunity to discuss their concerns.
• Formal Agreements: Your solicitor can help to formalise any agreements made, ensuring that they are legally binding and offer clarity for future Christmas times.
• Court Representation: If negotiations fail and court proceedings prove necessary, your solicitor will be able to represent you in court, ensuring your case is presented fairly and professionally.

At Aticus Law, we specialise in family law and child arrangements. We understand the challenges parents might face when trying to make Christmas a magical time for children and can help you negotiate them. Contact our Family Law Solicitors today.

We are here to help make the holidays as peaceful as possible for you and your family.