Child Arrangements & Custody

Helping protect children. Supporting families.

When relationships change, arranging the future care of your children can feel overwhelming.

Our experienced family lawyers guide you through this sensitive journey, helping you create stable, positive arrangements that put your children first.

How we help with child arrangements

Every family is unique, and your children’s needs are our priority. We’ll help you navigate important decisions about:

  • Where your children will live and how they spend time with each parent
  • Educational and medical decisions
  • Holiday arrangements and overseas travel
  • Financial support and maintenance
  • Special arrangements for grandparents
  • Relocation considerations

Our approach combines legal expertise with genuine understanding of the emotional challenges you face. We focus on finding practical solutions that help you and your former partner create positive co-parenting relationships for the years ahead.

Working together for your children

We believe the best outcomes come through constructive dialogue. Our family law team includes skilled mediators who can help you and your former partner work together to make decisions that benefit your children. If court involvement becomes necessary, we’ll guide you through each step with clarity and support.

Understanding child arrangement orders

A Child Arrangements Order helps establish clear agreements about your children’s care. These legal arrangements can cover:

  • Living arrangements
  • Time spent with each parent
  • Holiday planning
  • Educational decisions
  • Healthcare choices

Who can apply?

Parents with parental responsibility can apply directly for an order. Other family members, such as grandparents, may need court permission first – we can advise you on the best approach for your situation.

Your children’s best interests

Courts make decisions based on your children’s welfare, considering:

  • Your child’s wishes and feelings (appropriate to their age)
  • Their emotional and physical needs
  • The impact of any changes
  • Their overall wellbeing
  • Each parent’s ability to meet their needs

Our experienced team helps you present your case effectively while keeping your children’s needs at the centre of all decisions.

Supporting you every step of the way

Beyond legal guidance, we can connect you with additional support services, including counsellors and therapists, to help your family through this transition.

What our clients say:

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“I am very grateful for their patience, advice and conduct throughout the proceedings. A massive thank you goes to the whole team but special thanks to Stephanie Calthrop-Owen who manged the process with her trademark knowledge and expertise.”

Recent Family Law Client

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“Anne McAlister was a life saver on my case. She helped me, not only with her expertise in law but also gave me emotional support when needed. I call her Super Anne because she is truly super in delivering her work.”

Recent Family Law Client

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“Anne was very supportive and professional throughout my interactions with her. She guided me through what was a very challenging period and I always had full confidence in our discussions and her advice.”

Recent Family Law Client

Perspectives

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