How can I start seeing my children again?
- Deborah Harry
- May 20, 2022
- 2 min read
Always remember, it is your child's right to see you; therefore even if the resident parent refuses to allow this then it is likely that you will have to go to court.
If you cannot afford a solicitor, you can contact: deborahharry@chasservice.com
for free legal advice as it can be a very daunting time, This is the only way to legally see your child. The court is able to award you a Child Arrangements Order. This is a mandatory order which the resident parent CANNOT refuse, meaning they must obey by it and you can see your child by law.
Or you can start applying to the court for the Child Arrangements Order and get more information here:
https://apply-to-court-about-child-arrangements.sevice.justice.gov.uk
Once you have an official court order in place that the resident parent cannot refuse then you can either start contact advised by the court or start contact in a contact centre. This is usually a goof place to start especially if you have not seen your child for some time.
Help with court advice support & fees
Going to court can be expensive however you might be able to get legal aid. You can check if you’re eligible for legal aid here: www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid
You have to pay a £232 court fee to get a child arrangements order. If you're on a low income, you could get help with the fees by going to this website link: www.gov.uk/get-help-with-court-fees
It’s best to get legal help if you go to court. You contact your nearest Citizens Advice for free advice on help finding a solicitor. www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Here are all the useful links mentioned above :
1). The Starting Point Centre
2). Family Mediation Council – Find a Mediator
3). GOV - £500 Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
4). GOV – Apply for the Child Agreement Court Order
5). GOV – Check if you’re eligible for Legal Aid
6). GOV – Get help with court fees
7). Citizens Advice – Free Help and advice
8). Support Through Court
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