Child Abduction And Relocation
Child abduction and relocation cases are some of the most complex family law matters.
We are highly experienced in both areas, with a proven track record of ensuring that the best interests of the child are adhered to.
We know how distraught and terrified you will be at the thought of not seeing your children again or them being moved to the other side of the country or the world. Our Child Abduction and Relocation Solicitors will provide you with confidence and reassurance that everything is being done to protect your children and your relationship with them.
We are a diverse, multi-lingual law firm that uses best-in-class technology to provide clients with streamlined, modern, and highly effective family law advice and representation. Our years of experience in family law means we have a robust reputation for excellence with the UK’s best Barristers and King’s Counsel, Forensic Accountants, Independent Financial Advisers, Surveyors, Actuaries, and Counsellors who can bring additional support to our family law department if required. Our clients also benefit from our ability to instruct the country’s most respected expert witnesses.
Our family law ethos
Our Family Solicitors are members of Resolution, an organisation of family law professionals who believe a non-confrontational approach to family law disputes produces better long term outcomes. Our team abides by Resolution’s Code of Practice and work to resolve disputes through round table negotiation and mediation. However, if Court proceedings prove inevitable, you can trust that we will fight tenaciously to get the best possible results for you and your children.
Our highly intelligent and compassionate Solicitors have received training on dealing with the emotional impact of child abduction and proposed relocation. If you are finding things difficult, we can refer you to support agencies and counsellors that can help you. Our team, which include trained Mediators and members of the Law Society’s Children’s Law Panel, are here to help you when life takes an unexpected turn and get the results you need to move on to a positive future.
Below are some of the most common questions we are asked about child abduction and relocation.
What is the Hague Convention?
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, commonly known as the Hague Convention, is an international agreement covering worldwide parental child abduction. It provides a clear and concise process through which a parent can seek to have their child returned to the child’s home country, as long as the nations in question are both signatories to the Convention.
What can I do if I believe my child will be abducted?
If you believe your child or children are at risk of abduction there are several steps we can take. One is to apply for a Specific Issue Order or a Prohibited Steps Order.
A Prohibited Steps Order prevents a person with parental responsibility from doing something stated in the Order unless the Court grants consent, for example, applying for your child’s passport.
A Specific Issue Order is an Order sought from the Court concerning a specific question or issue, for example, the other parent may ask if they can take your child abroad for six months. If you believe your child will be removed from the UK in the next 48 hours, we can apply to the Police to contact the National Border Targeting Centre and ask them to alert all UK points of departure to try to prevent the abduction. This is called a ‘Port Alert’ and it will remain live for 28 days.
Can I stop my partner from relocating within the UK with our child?
If your partner announces they wish to move to another part of the country, you may fear for the relationship you have with your son or daughter. This is especially true if you currently live close by and see them regularly.
When it comes to relocation cases, the Court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child. Although the Court will consider the needs and wants of everyone involved if it cannot keep everyone happy (which is usually the case) the welfare of the child will trump all other considerations. The best way to deal with relocation cases is for both parents to come to an agreement through roundtable negotiation and/or mediation. This is because these methods are designed to achieve a win-win solution. We will assist you throughout these processes, ensuring that your needs and wishes are clearly represented.
Why Choose Us?
People choose and recommend us because we care about them, their children, and their future. We are focused on results and achieving them in the most cost-effective, non-confrontational way possible. Our Family Law Solicitors will take care of your legal concerns so you can focus on yourself and your children.
To talk to us about child abduction and relocation following your divorce, please contact us using the form below.