Child custody laws in the UK
What are the child custody laws in the UK?
Child custody laws in the UK are mainly contained in:
- the Family Law Act 1996
- the Children Act 1989
- the Adoption and Children Act 2002
- the Child Abduction and Custody Act 1985
What do child custody laws in the UK say?
Child custody laws in the UK govern things like:
- Parental responsibility
- Who a child will live with
- Who they will have contact with
What are the terms now used under child custody laws in the UK?
The terms used under the laws have changed over time, and now the terms ‘residence’ and ‘contact’ are used rather than ‘custody’ and ‘access’.
Similarly, the term ‘parental responsibility’ is used to describe all the rights and duties that parents have towards their children, for example, in making choices regarding their education, religion and medical treatment.
What orders can be made?
It is preferable to try to come to an agreement with the other parent of the child about where the children will live and who will see them and when. You could try mediation if you are having trouble reaching an agreement.
If you can't reach an agreement, the courts can make orders under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989.
If there are specific issues that you cannot agree on, such as concerning the education or medical treatment of your child, you can apply to the court for a 'specific issue order'.
Getting legal advice - let us help
You should get legal advice from a family law solicitor. If you cannot afford it, you may be eligible for legal aid. Give us a call today and we will see how we can help.
If you would like to obtain legal advice on child custody laws in the UK, Contact Law can put you in touch with local family law solicitors free of charge. Please call us on 0800 1777 162 or complete the web-form above and we’ll call you back.
- Last Updated on 02/03/2010
