Child Arrangement Orders in Sale

These decisions can feel overwhelming, particularly if discussions with the other parent are tense or break down altogether.

That’s where our child arrangement order solicitors in Sale step in. With more than 100 years of experience serving the local community in Sale, our family law team at Slater Heelis has the depth of expertise you need to navigate these complex issues. We are recognised in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners, and we’ve built a trusted reputation for combining legal excellence with a personal approach.

What is a Child Arrangements Order?

A Child Arrangements Order is a decision made by the Family Court which sets out where a child will live, when they will spend time with each parent, and the type of contact that should take place – such as in person, by phone, or by video call.

If you and your former partner can’t reach agreement, the court can step in and make arrangements that prioritise the welfare of your child. The order can also cover wider issues such as which school your child should attend, whether certain medical procedures should take place, or what faith, if any, the child should be raised in. In some cases, related orders may be issued, such as Prohibited Steps Orders to prevent certain actions being taken, or Specific Issue Orders to resolve particular disputes.

What factors do courts consider when making a Child Arrangement Order?

The Family Court will always put the child’s welfare first, so judges will look at a range of factors when making a Child Arrangement Order. These include:

• The child’s wishes and feelings, depending on their age and maturity
• Their physical, emotional, and educational needs
• The likely effect of any changes in circumstances
• Their age, background, and any other relevant characteristics
• Any risk of harm, including neglect or domestic abuse
• The ability of each parent or carer to meet their needs

Who can apply for a Child Arrangements Order?

Applications are usually made by parents, but other people with a meaningful role in the child’s life can sometimes apply too. That includes guardians, special guardians, step-parents, or anyone with parental responsibility. A spouse or civil partner of a parent can apply, as can someone who has lived with the child for at least three years. In some cases, grandparents or other relatives may also apply, particularly if they have been caring for the child or have been denied contact. Where necessary, permission from the court may be required before the application can proceed.

How do I get a Child Arrangement Order?

The process normally begins with mediation, which gives both parents the chance to reach an agreement with the support of an independent mediator. At Slater Heelis, we can arrange this for you by organising the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) and connecting you with an accredited mediator.

If it proves impossible to reach a resolution through mediation, or if it’s not suitable in your circumstances, we can guide you through making an application to the Family Court. Once submitted, the court will schedule a first hearing, where both parents attend and CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) provide a safeguarding report. In straightforward cases, a final order may even be agreed at that stage. If issues remain unresolved, the court will then set out the next steps, which may include further mediation, detailed reports, or a final hearing where a judge makes the decision.

How long does a Child Arrangement Order take?

Every case is different, and the time it takes to secure a Child Arrangements Order depends on the complexity of the issues and the court’s availability. Some cases can be resolved within a few months, particularly if parents are able to reach agreement quickly. Others, especially those involving safeguarding concerns or disputes over education, relocation, or medical care, can take a year or longer.

At each stage, the court prioritises the welfare of the child above all else. Delays are minimised wherever possible, but thorough assessments are always made to ensure that the final order properly reflects the child’s best interests.

How can we help at Slater Heelis?

As experienced child custody lawyers in Sale, we provide expert guidance and representation at every step of the process. Our solicitors help you negotiate and reach agreements wherever possible, manage applications to the Family Court when required, and enforce or vary existing orders if circumstances change. We also support grandparents and other family members in securing contact, and act swiftly in emergency applications where a child’s safety is at risk.

Clients choose Slater Heelis because of our strong reputation in family law, our recognition in leading legal directories, and our 250 years of legal heritage across the North West. We know how difficult these situations can be, which is why we focus on giving you practical advice in plain English, regular updates, and a service that’s always personal to you.

How to find our office in Sale

You can visit our divorce solicitors at:

1st Floor
Crossgate House
47–55 Cross Street
Sale
M33 7FT

Our Sale office is centrally located, just a short walk from the Metrolink station and close to several local bus routes. The building is fully accessible and easy to reach for clients in Altrincham, Stretford, Urmston, Trafford and the wider South Manchester area.

Contact our Sale divorce solicitors today

If you need support with a child arrangement order in Sale, our solicitors are here to help – don’t hesitate to get in touch.

You can take your pick from the following:

Calling us on 0161 969 3131
Filling in our online contact form

Whatever the specifics of your circumstances, you can always rely on us to take the time to understand your situation, explain your options clearly, and give you the expert support you need to secure arrangements that work for you and your child.