Returning to School

This week many children are starting school for the first time or going onto to secondary school. This is usually an exciting moment in a child’s life, but for some families the situation can become fraught with difficulties, especially if the parents are separated and cannot agree on the best way forward for their child.

These days there is not only which school a child should attend to consider, but also for some families, whether a child should attend school at all or should instead be home educated.

The Children Act 1989 allows a parent to apply to the Court for a Specific Issue Order if a disagreement like this arises.  At Kay & Pascoe LLP, we specialise in helping parents reach agreement outside of Court. We use a range of dispute resolution processes including, mediation, and collaborative law to help parents reach their own agreement.

The processes we use aim to put children’s best interests at the heart of the decision-making process and encourages communication between the parents. If additional support is required, then we will use the assistance of a family consultant or suggest the children, if old enough, speak to the mediator directly.

There are many situations in a child’s life that may give rise to the need for these type of negotiations.  We also regularly help couples where a disagreement arises about whether a child is allowed to go on holiday abroad or whether a child should be vaccinated.

If agreement really cannot be reached then we help families choose whether court proceedings or arbitration might be the right way forward.

We are able and happy to help in any family dispute that may arise.  If you would like to find out more information, please  contact either our Heathfield office on 01435 817060 or our Crowborough office on 01892 664348.

Fiona Connah

Solicitor/Collaborative Lawyer