Fitz Solicitors offers expert legal advice and support for clients who need a child arrangement order (CAO) in Bracknell.
What is a Child Arrangement Order?
A child arrangement order is a legal directive issued by a family court. It outlines where a child will live, who they can spend time with, and how much time they are to spend with each person.
This type of order has replaced the previous contact and residence orders.
Who Applies for A Child Arrangement Order?
Several individuals may be eligible to apply for a child arrangement order, including:
- A child’s grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling, half-sibling, or step-parent, provided the child has lived with them for over a year.
- A legal guardian who was appointed after the death of a parent.
- A foster carer, if the child has been in their care for more than three years.
Other people can apply for a child arrangement order if they have consent from:
- All individuals who hold parental responsibility.
- Children’s services, in cases where the child is in care.
Restrictions for applying:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- A CAO typically cannot be made for a child over the age of 16.
Applying for a CAO in Bracknell
You can apply for a child arrangement order online or with support from a solicitor. Seeking legal advice is recommended to ensure you fully understand your rights and options before applying.
In most situations, you’ll first need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This meeting is designed to help all parties explore the possibility of reaching an agreement on child care arrangements without needing to go to court.
How We Help
A CAO is an essential, legal step for establishing clear arrangements for a child, post-separation or divorce. The process can be daunting, and understanding each step is important. Our professional solicitors in Bracknell can help ensure an arrangement that prioritises the well-being of the child.