Difficult issues can arise relating to children after a relationship or marriage breakdown including
- Who should the children reside with?
- When, where and how should the children have contact with the non resident parent and other family members?
- Specific issues relating to the children's education, surname, religion and so on.
- Who has parental responsibility for the children?
It is best, if possible, to reach agreement with the other parties about these matters and we can provide advice and support to help in negotiating a resolution. The Courts encourage families to reach agreement themselves and sometimes mediation or alternative dispute resolution can help.
If a resolution cannot be achieved then a Court application can be made. Courts use the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 to decide what is in the children's best interests. Other agencies can be involved including social services particularly if there are welfare concerns for the children. We can provide you with representation and advice relating to all Court proceedings to achieve an outcome which is in the best interests of the children and practical for you.
You may have other issues such as:
- Disputes over children's paternity
- Financial provision and maintenance
- Child adoption
- Domestic violence
Issues regarding where children live, how much contact you have with them and how they are brought up can be extremely stressful, particularly after a relationship breakdown. We can provide specialist advice, support and representation during this particularly difficult period.
Legal Aid may be available subject to your means.