Children & Family Law.

Child Law Solicitors: Family & Child Custody Arrangements and Children’s Law.

Our Child Law Solicitors offer specialist legal advice on all areas of family law relating to child arrangements and child custody.

They are vastly experienced in helping and supporting families through tough and challenging situations. Any issue or dispute affecting the family can be difficult and upsetting, but when children are involved the situation becomes all the more worrying.

It is essential that you take professional, legal advice as early as possible to ensure the children themselves are protected and that any decisions taken on their behalf are in their very best interests.

We recognise the need for discretion at all times and will handle your case sensitively and with understanding. We pride ourselves on being friendly and approachable whilst delivering first class advice and exceptional customer service, offering you peace of mind and reassurance during what can be an already stressful time.

Your family matters to us and we are on your side to help you reach an amicable and positive conclusion, whatever the situation.

To find out more about how we can help, give the team a call or fill in the online enquiry form.

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What our Child Law Solicitors do

Lanyon Bowdler is able to provide you with specialist advice on all areas of child law including:

Child Arrangement Orders

We can help you with decisions about where your children should live, access arrangements and parental responsibility following a divorce or civil partnership dissolution. We have an extremely strong track-record of successfully helping separating parents to agree on these matters through discussion and dialogue.

Where this approach does not bring about a resolution however, we can help you apply to the court for a Child Arrangement Order. We will help you to complete all the necessary paperwork, represent you at hearings and will carefully prepare all statements and evidence that the court will require to reach the right decision.

Legal advice for grandparents

Although as a grandparent you don’t have automatic legal rights when it comes to your grandchildren, that is not the full picture and we regularly provide legal advice and support to families facing issues or disputes on this matter. Whether you are pursuing a legal order to formalise guardianship of your grandchildren or whether, as a grandparent, you are fighting for your right to see them, we can offer all the help you will need.

Legal advice for stepfamilies

There are many issues affecting stepfamilies including parental responsibility, adoption and inheritance. Whatever the situation, our team of family law specialists are on hand with the expert, legal advice you will need to bring your case to a swift and effective close.

Removing parental responsibilities

The law surrounding parental responsibility can be confusing but we can provide you with clarity and guidance. We can advise on all aspects of parental responsibility including agreements and orders, as well as the court process to have this responsibility removed where necessary and possible. We can also provide information on alternative routes such as surrendering or transferring parental responsibility.

Special Guardianship Orders

If you wish to apply for a Special Guardianship Order then we can help you with the full, legal process, the assessment process and the full court proceedings. We are also able to help anyone wishing to change or remove the order so that they are able to obtain sole, legal responsibility for their children.

Court hearings

We can help you with any dispute resolution appointments and hearings, which are designed to give you the opportunity to voice your thoughts and concerns in decisions about the living arrangements and/or welfare of your children. The aim is always to help both parents resolve as many issues as possible and come to an agreement, but where this is not possible we will establish all the facts to help the court make a decision about arrangements for your children.

We can also help you to prepare for a fact finding hearing, which will be held in the event that either party raises allegations of domestic or child abuse

We can also help you prepare for a final contested hearing, which will be held at the end of court proceedings of the parties have not been able to reach an agreement.

Child maintenance

Our team of specialists will explain how child maintenance is calculated and will advise on all aspects of your entitlement including whether an agreement can be drawn up without the involvement of the Child Maintenance Service (CMS), if a formal agreement needs to be made and how this may impact upon the level of maintenance paid or received.

Paternity disputes

We will take the time to thoroughly understand your individual circumstances so that we can provide you with tailored advice about how your particular paternity dispute can be resolved either with or without court action.

Our dedicated Child Law Solicitors have an excellent track record of securing successful outcomes for families nationally, providing them with reassurance and peace of mind for the future.

Our Child Law Expertise

Why choose the child law solicitors at Lanyon Bowdler?

Our friendly and approachable team offers specialist advice on all areas of child and family law, providing a first-class and professional service. You will have the full focus of a highly accomplished lawyer who will be on hand throughout to offer reassurance and support during what can be a stressful time.

Lanyon Bowdler’s expertise is recognised throughout the industry and is recommended in the 2024 edition of The Legal 500, an independent, national guide to recommended law firms. The directory states: ‘Lanyon Bowdler has a strong reputation for its work on the full gamut of complex issues involving financial remedy, children and divorce. It is skilled at handling cases where there are business structures and trusts. On the children side, the group frequently advises on internal and external relocation cases, domestic violence and cases involving significant welfare issues.’

The 2024 edition of Chambers UK states; ‘Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors is a well-regarded firm. Its group represents clients in financial matters involving trusts, pensions and overseas assets, such as divorce proceedings and prenuptial agreements, with notable expertise in cases concerning farming families. The team also supports clients in complex Children Act matters involving allegations of criminal behaviour and domestic abuse. The practice offers a range of dispute resolution options, including collaborative law services.’

Strengths 

“All of the lawyers were exceptionally professional and friendly. They demonstrated a wealth of knowledge in their fields through sound guidance which was also mixed with real-world experience.”

“They work collaboratively with counsel to move things forward in the most productive way.”

Armed Forces Covenant

Lanyon Bowdler is proud to be part of the Armed Forces Covenant, recognising the incredible work of current and ex-military personnel by ensuring that they have access to the very best specialist, legal advice and justice.

We understand the unique issues that many members and veterans of the armed forces face, which is why we have signed up to the Operations Group in Shropshire and Herefordshire to provide any legal support and practical advice that they and their families may need.

Working in partnership with Shropshire Council and many other agencies including Help for Heroes, Royal British Legion, Veterans UK, local military regiments and West Mercia Police, we attend the hub set up in Shrewsbury town centre every month, so that veterans are able to access first-rate legal advice whenever they need it.

Your Child Law questions answered

Do I need a child custody lawyer?

The prospect of having to fight for the right to be with your child or children can be somewhat overwhelming, but ensuring you have a skilled child custody lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Child Law Solicitors are family lawyers who have gained extensive experience in child arrangement and child custody cases.

In many situations, by working together with a child’s best interests in mind, parents can successfully negotiate an agreeable custody agreement without needing to go to court. Unfortunately, there are instances where one parent’s idea of what’s best for the children differs significantly from the other’s and no form of agreement can be reached.

If you can sit down with your child’s other parent and agree on the details of physical and legal custody, visitation, and child support, then it’s unlikely that you’ll require the services of a lawyer. If you can’t, you might need a family lawyer, a mediator, or even both.

How much are child custody lawyers?

At Lanyon Bowdler, we have a transparent approach to costs so there are never any surprises. We offer fixed fees and staged payment options in addition to the traditional hourly charging rate. You can tailor your payment plan to suit your personal circumstances.

Testimonials

What our clients say.

Since dealing with Lanyon Bowdler they have been diligent, efficient and at all times very helpful along with being structured in dealing with matters, fees and clarity on all levels. Thank you.

Michael
via ReviewSolicitors

I was clearly informed of progress step by step. The service you provided was very good.

Peter Weston
Shrewsbury

All work carried out effectively and efficiently.

Hubert Jones
via ReviewSolicitors

An excellent service with solicitors that you can talk to and who give you a clear understanding of all necessary legal implications and interpretations.

Eric
via ReviewSolicitors

From start to finish we had excellent service. Friendly, approachable and professional.

Carl Gittins
via ReviewSolicitors

Used Lanyon Bowdler for conveyancing and for legal advice – both solicitors I worked with were effective and professional. Law firm was fast and responsive to queries and clear pricing.

Samantha
via ReviewSolicitors

Very clear, concise advice and guidance, easy to understand.

Ian Jamieson
Telford

Good service provided throughout with clear communication throughout with all options explored.

Lee

I was impressed with the forensic approach to identifying, securing, assessing and presenting evidence over the two years that it took to finally resolve the issue.

Timothy
via ReviewSolicitors

I can thoroughly recommend the highly professional and supportive service received over the last few months.

Heather
via ReviewSolicitors

Responsive, supportive, approachable, clear and empathetic.

Lisa Thacker

Professional and prompt communication. Supportive and client focused.

Lisa Thacker
Jennifer M Whittall Ltd

Whenever I have had need to contact Lanyon Bowdler I have always received a fast, concise and friendly response.

Lee Mortimer
UK Case Management

Definitely would use Lanyon Bowdler again if I need the use of a solicitor.

Mark Bowkett
via ReviewSolicitors

Smooth and efficient service from very professional firm.

Tim
via ReviewSolicitors

We were particularly impressed with the quality of work, the speed and excellent communication.

Allenby Douglas Ltd
Oswestry

Very friendly and approachable. Very good advice

Ivor Brown
via ReviewSolicitors

Great Service; Lanyon Bowdler were excellent from the outset. Straightforward and easy process. I just sat back and waited.

Paul Rowe
via ReviewSolicitors

Everything has been professional, efficient and courteous throughout and we are very pleased, both with the service and with the eventual outcome of our case. Everything was first class and exceeded our expectations. Thank you again for providing such splendid service. It is really appreciated.

Mr N J & Dr S J Browne
Llanfyllin

Contact the Child Law Solicitors at Lanyon Bowdler

Please give us a call for a friendly, confidential, chat about how we can help support you when you or your family need legal advice and representation. Please contact a member of the team or complete our online enquiry form.

By choosing Lanyon Bowdler for child law legal advice, you can rest assured that you have the best legal expertise on hand no matter what the situation. We are committed to providing exceptional levels of client care and will work closely and considerately with you to help find the best outcomes. Our Family Law team has great experience in all areas of family law and family mediation.

We have offices in ShrewsburyBromyardConwyHerefordLudlowOswestry and Telford, regularly acting on behalf of clients across Shropshire, Herefordshire, Mid and North Wales and throughout the Midlands, including Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

As a leading full-service law firm however, we can represent you wherever you live in England or Wales, so don’t hesitate to take advice from the family law experts.

If you or a loved one needs legal advice or representation then please give us a call for a friendly, confidential chat about how we can help support you. Contact a member of the team on the phone or by completing the online enquiry form.

Our people

Meet the team.

Sue Hodgson
Sue Hodgson
Partner
Family Law
Jon Moriarty
Jon Moriarty
Partner
Family Law
Philippa Pearson
Philippa Pearson
Partner
Family Law
Georgia Rowney
Georgia Rowney
Legal Assistant
Family Law
Lizzie Cross
Lizzie Cross
Trainee Solicitor
Family
Mia Williams
Mia Williams
Trainee Solicitor
Family Law
Anne Lewis
Anne Lewis
Associate Legal Executive (FCILEX)
Family Law
Lisa Grimmett
Lisa Grimmett
Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Caroline Yorke
Caroline Yorke
Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Fiona Cooper
Fiona Cooper
Legal Assistant
Family Law
Rachel Tomley
Rachel Tomley
Solicitor
Family Law
Kim Evans
Kim Evans
Legal Support Assistant & Paralegal Apprentice
Family
Erin Payne
Erin Payne
Paralegal Apprentice
Family Law
Staci Robinson
Staci Robinson
Associate Solicitor
Family Law
Laura Jones
Laura Jones
Solicitor
Family Law
Knowledge

Case studies.

Knowledge

Latest knowledge.

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DIY Divorce and Pensions

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Jon Moriarty • 12 Sep 2023
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The Re-Marriage Trap and Some Other Conside...

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Pension Pitfalls – A Cautionary Tale For Th...

We have seen a number of cases where, following a final order being made by the court, the relevant documentation h...
Jon Moriarty • 22 Aug 2023
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Travelling with Children – Legal Issues to ...

It is important, where the parents are separated or there are court orders in place, to check the position since, i...
Caroline Yorke • 14 Jul 2023
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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Instagram, of all places, drew my attention to today (15 June) being World Elder Abuse Awareness Day which was esta...
Caroline Yorke • 15 Jun 2023
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Happy Valley

"Happy Valley" is a British crime drama television series. It explores various themes relating to complex family dy...
Miriam Homer • 02 Mar 2023
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National Family Mediation Week: What Can Me...

A relationship breakdown is never easy for any individual, especially when someone then needs to consider the next ...
Rachel Tomley • 19 Jan 2023
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Frequently Asked Questions about Pension Sh...

It is important, where the parents are separated or there are court orders in place, to check the position since, i...
Sue Hodgson • 05 Oct 2020
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Heterosexual Couples and Civil Partnerships...

Campaigners for mixed sex couples seeking to enter into civil partnerships as opposed to marriage rejoiced when as ...
14 Jan 2020
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Parental Responsibility and Same Sex Parent...

Parental responsibility is a legal term which encompasses all rights and duties, powers and responsibilities which,...
Anne Lewis • 26 Apr 2019
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Child Arrangements Orders – “Live With” and...

The question of which parent is more likely to get a Live With Child Arrangements Order (custody in old money) is a...
Sue Hodgson • 27 Apr 2018
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