Guest Starring: Susan J Williams

Host: Mili Sandifer-Smith

Topics: Divorce; Dissolution; Parental Responsibility; Child Arrangement Orders; Children; Separation; Mediation; Court Applications; Custody; Residence and Contact; Marriage; Civil Partnership; Mothers and Fathers; Private Law; Welfare Checklist; Child Maintenance; Relationships; Co-Parenting; CAFCASS

In the fifth episode of “Family Matters” we are joined by Susan Williams who sheds light on agreements between separating couples regarding their children. 

We start by breaking down the concept of Parental Responsibility in order for separating couples to start their journey to co-parent their children effectively. For those who opting for the Court route in order to obtain a Child Arrangements Order, there are many factors to be considered known as the ‘welfare checklist’; whereby decisions are made in the best interest of the child or children. We discuss how gender may play a role in these decisions and the importance of early advice. 

Useful Links:

• https://www.gov.uk/parental-rights-responsibilities
• https://www.gov.uk/looking-after-children-divorce 
• https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/family-and-children
• https://childlawadvice.org.uk/information-pages/explaining-the-legality-of-a-child-arrangements-order/ 
• https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/commentary-and-opinion/supporting-families-in-conflict/5110584.article