Child arrangements, co-parenting communication and the best interests of children are the central themes running through this family law guide for separating parents. It is written for mums, dads and carers who are facing separation or divorce with children and need clear information about practical parenting decisions, such as where children live, time with each parent, handovers, welfare concerns and how disagreements may be handled.
The book is structured around common questions asked by parents when family life changes, with answers provided by different specialists. The introductory material explains three main areas that often help parents move forward: improving communication with an ex-partner, working out what is best for the child or children, and understanding the mechanics of mediation, family law support services, the family courts and the legal process.
Parents searching for help with child contact, custody, access, shared care, co-parenting plans, family mediation, court hearings or separation advice may find it useful as a reference to read before speaking with a solicitor, mediator or support worker. It could also be used by family support practitioners, social workers, domestic abuse advisers and parenting workers who want a plain-language resource to signpost to parents dealing with separation and children.
The second edition includes updates connected with Covid-19, including changes to how family courts operate and information about remote hearings. It also refers to support for male and female victims of domestic abuse through the Covid Green Phone Initiative, making it relevant for parents who need early guidance where safety, risk or welfare concerns are part of the situation.
The tone is intended to be gender-neutral and practical, focusing on realistic information rather than taking sides. Edited by Rebecca Giraud and Bob Greig, with consulting editor Dr Angharad Rudkin, it also includes a foreword by Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division.
