Fitz Solicitors offers expert legal advice and support for clients who need a child arrangement order (CAO) in Virginia Water.
What is a Child Arrangement Order?
A child arrangement order is a legal ruling made by the family court that specifies where a child will live, who they will spend time with, and how much time they will spend with each individual.
This 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 Virginia Water
You can apply for a child arrangement order online or with assistance from a solicitor. It’s highly recommended to seek legal advice beforehand to ensure you understand your rights and all available options.
In many cases, you’ll need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) first. The purpose of this meeting is to explore whether an agreement on child care arrangements can be made without going to court.
How We Help
A CAO is a crucial legal step in setting clear arrangements for a child after divorce. The process can feel overwhelming, and understanding each stage is vital. Our professional solicitors in Virginia Water are here to help ensure that the arrangement prioritises the child’s well-being.