Child Custody Solicitors in Coventry
Child custody disputes are often one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of separation or divorce. Deciding where a child should live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how important decisions will be made about their future can feel overwhelming.
Our child custody solicitors in Coventry are here to provide clear, practical guidance to help you protect your child’s welfare and secure arrangements that work for your family.
When parents separate, uncertainty around custody can quickly escalate into conflict. Without legal advice, it can be difficult to understand your rights, what options are available, and how the law in England and Wales applies to your circumstances. At Band Hatton Button, our solicitors for child custody in Coventry combine legal expertise with a compassionate approach, helping you navigate these issues with clarity and confidence.
Whether you need advice on parental responsibility, are negotiating contact arrangements, or require robust representation in court, our team is here to support you every step of the way. As a leading child custody law firm in Coventry, our child law solicitors have extensive experience helping parents and guardians resolve custody matters with sensitivity and professionalism.
We can assist with:
- Understanding child custody and arrangements
- Resolving custody disputes through mediation and negotiation
- Parental responsibility and your legal rights
- Relocation and child custody issues in Coventry
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Disclaimer: In the UK, the legal system no longer uses the term child custody. Instead, the courts refer to child arrangements, which cover where a child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. However, because many people still search for information using the phrase child custody, we’ve used the term in this article to make it easier to find. Wherever we mention child custody, please understand this refers to child arrangements under current UK law.
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Contact our child custody solicitors in Coventry today
Please get in touch with our child custody solicitors in Coventry today for clear, personable guidance. You can call us on 024 7663 2121 or email us at info@bandhattonbutton.com.
Our family law solicitors provide bespoke legal guidance on all aspects of child custody and arrangements, offering practical solutions that prioritise your child’s welfare.
Our child custody solicitors’ charges
The cost of advice depends on the complexity of your case. Our family law fees are usually charged at an hourly rate, though we may be able to offer fixed-fee services in some situations.
For more information about our fees, please click here.
Why choose us for child custody cases in Coventry?
Choosing the right solicitor for child custody matters is essential. Band Hatton Button offers:
- Extensive family law experience – with years of expertise resolving complex custody cases.
- A Resolution-accredited specialist (Ruth Hayfield) in private children’s matters, meaning we can deliver the absolute highest standard of non-confrontational family law service.
- Specialist mediation skills – to help you resolve disputes without unnecessary litigation.
- Strong reputation in Coventry – trusted by families throughout the region.
- Compassionate support – understanding the emotional challenges of custody disputes.
- Clear communication – advice delivered in plain English, with no legal jargon.
We are committed to achieving solutions that provide stability and security for your child while supporting you at every stage.
How can Band Hatton Button’s child custody solicitors help me?
Understanding child custody and arrangements
Child custody, legally referred to as child arrangements, covers two key areas:
- Residence – where your child will live.
- Contact – how much time your child spends with the other parent, and in what form (in person, phone calls, video contact, etc.).
The law places the child’s welfare as the top priority. Courts consider factors such as the child’s wishes (depending on their age and maturity), their physical and emotional needs, and each parent’s ability to meet those needs.
Our Coventry-based solicitors for child custody will take the time to explain how these factors apply to your circumstances, helping you make informed decisions and feel reassured about the path ahead.
Resolving custody disputes through mediation and negotiation
Court should not always be the first option. Many custody disputes can be resolved through mediation or negotiation, allowing parents to reach an agreement without the stress and cost of litigation.
Mediation provides a structured setting for parents to discuss arrangements with the help of a trained mediator. We can advise you throughout this process so you feel supported and confident in reaching a fair outcome.
If negotiation is not successful or suitable, our solicitors are fully prepared to represent you in court proceedings. We will ensure your child’s best interests are protected at every stage.
Parental responsibility and your legal rights
Parental responsibility gives parents the legal right to make important decisions about their child’s life, including education, healthcare, and religion.
- Mothers automatically have parental responsibility.
- Fathers usually have it if married to the mother or named on the birth certificate after 1 December 2003.
- Others, such as step-parents or grandparents, can apply to the court for parental responsibility in certain situations.
Our child custody solicitors in Coventry can help you apply for parental responsibility and advise on how it should be exercised if disputes arise.
Relocation and child custody issues in Coventry
Relocation is often one of the most contentious custody issues. Moving a child to another part of the UK, or abroad, can significantly affect contact arrangements. In many cases, you will need the other parent’s consent or a court order.
Our Coventry child custody solicitors are experienced in relocation disputes. We will explain your rights clearly and guide you through the process, whether you are seeking permission to relocate or challenging a move that could disrupt your relationship with your child.
Frequently asked questions about child custody for parents in Coventry
Do I need a solicitor for child custody disputes in Coventry?
You do not have to instruct a solicitor, but professional advice can make a significant difference. A solicitor can explain your rights, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you effectively in court if required.
How do courts in Coventry decide who a child should live with?
Courts always prioritise a child’s welfare. They consider the child’s wishes (where appropriate), their needs, the impact of changes, and the ability of each parent to provide stable care. They will assess the importance of each of these factors on a case-by-case basis, so there is no certain order of priority which will take place.
Can custody arrangements be changed later?
Yes. Arrangements can be varied if circumstances change, such as relocation, new school requirements, or the child's evolving needs. If parents cannot agree, an application can be made to the court, which our solicitors at Band Hatton Button can help with.
What if my ex-partner refuses to follow the custody order?
If a court order is breached, you can apply for enforcement. Courts may impose penalties, vary the order, or, in serious cases, transfer residence.
Do grandparents or other relatives have rights to custody or contact?
Grandparents and relatives do not have automatic rights, but they can apply for permission to seek contact or residence. The court will consider whether this benefits the child’s welfare. At Band Hatton Button, our grandparents’ rights solicitors can ensure that you have the best chance of getting the agreements you need to preserve your relationship with your grandchildren.
What happens if we cannot agree on holiday arrangements?
If disputes arise over holidays, you can apply for a Specific Issue Order. The court can then decide whether a child may travel abroad or how holiday time is shared. Our expert solicitors can help advise on whether this is the correct path of action for you, and guide you closely through the process regardless of your circumstances.
Can my child decide where they want to live?
The court may consider a child’s wishes, particularly as they get older, but these views are only one factor. The final decision always rests on the child’s welfare, yet their wishes and welfare do not always correspond.
What if one parent wants to move abroad with the child?
Relocation abroad requires either the other parent’s consent or a court order. The court will weigh the benefits of the move against the potential impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Contact our child custody solicitors in Coventry today
Please get in touch with our child custody solicitors in Coventry today for clear, personable guidance. You can call us on 024 7663 2121 or email us at info@bandhattonbutton.com.
Our family law solicitors provide bespoke legal guidance on all aspects of child custody and arrangements, offering practical solutions that prioritise your child’s welfare.