Children and Divorce

The Court no longer has the power to deal with periodical payments payable by one spouse to another for child support. This is dealt with by the Child Support Agency (CSA):

1. Maintenance
   Maintenance payments can be agreed by the parties without referral to the C.S.A. Additionally if financial terms have been agreed, these can be incorporated within the Consent Order, as a recital setting out the agreed maintenance terms.
   It should be noted however that 12 months after the date of the Consent Order, the matter may be varied by either party referring the matter to the C.S.A.
2. Residence Orders (Formerly Custody)
   An order can be made by agreement or by the court specifying with whom the child or children should reside on a day-to-day basis.
3. Contact Orders (Formerly Access)
   The parties can reach agreement, or an order made by the court as to the periods that the parent without residence (Non-Resident Parent) should see the children. In conjunction with divorce and ancillary relief cases, we regularly deal with child issues and have expertise in these areas. Where matters in relation to residence and contact cannot be agreed, either party may apply to the court for an order under The Children Act 1989.

Divorce & Family Law Advice

For divorce advice and to find out more about our services please complete our enquiry form.  Simply complete the form and we will call you for a preliminary discussion of your situation and how we can be of assistance.  Alternatively you may call us direct on 01565 632152.