Communication vital when children are involved in a family separation

Whilst I advise regularly on the resolution of financial matters upon parties separating, I am also frequently asked to advise about arrangements for children. As in all areas of my practice, communication and considering compromises is key.
Communication vital when children are involved in a family separation.Communication vital when children are involved in a family separation.
Communication vital when children are involved in a family separation.

However, Christmas and New Year can be a particularly difficult time of year when disputes over arrangements for children during the festive holidays escalate as it is such an important period for families to spend time together.

Under the Children Act 1989 the child’s welfare is paramount and there are a number of factors that the court needs to consider amongst other matters is the child’s wishes and feelings, which in reality is about parties listening to what the child is asking.

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The older a child is, the more weight a child’s voice will carry.

Often, though, a child’s voice will be lost when one or both parent’s own wishes are put before their child’s.

This can be understandable when parties themselves, for example are entering into the unknown as single parents and struggling to deal with a very difficult period in their own lives, though, I will frequently hear one parent accusing the other of falsely stating that it is not the child’s wish but that other parent’s wish to limit time.

In my experience, it is not and can just be a child who is anxious about not wanting to upset a parent because the child wants to spend time elsewhere so expresses their wish through a parent.

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This raises the issue that if there is good communication not only between parties but also between parent and child, such as their wishes and feelings a lot of mistrust and misunderstandings can be minimised.

Communication is key along with good planning.

In most aspects of life, planning helps.

Last minute requests do not and one parent may be disappointed because arrangements have already been put in place because they have not conveyed their wish in good time.

Ultimately, your child will be the most precious gift you will ever receive, and all they want is to be loved and happy.

Not getting caught up in conflict because of poor communication can often be the greatest gift you can give to your child who will just want to spend time with their families without feeling caught in the middle.

In need of legal support to help your family matter? Contact family solicitors in Hartlepool at Tilly Bailey & Irvine as soon as possible on 01429 350062 or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk