Specialist Child Law Advice and Assistance
When it comes to joint custody, the law in Scotland supports the general principle that both parents should share responsibility for the upbringing of their children. However, that general principle is secondary to the paramount consideration that whatever arrangements are made must be in the child’s best interests. This often means that it is best if the parents can come to an agreement about residence and contact (also known as custody and access) rather than asking the courts to intervene.
We regularly work with clients to negotiate and agree the terms of a joint custody arrangement. Whether this is done through mediation, collaboration or more formal means, our aim is always to help our clients find a workable and effective solution.
Shared Parenting in Scotland
If parents are able to communicate and cooperate, it is possible for them to put child arrangements in place that can amount to shared parenting, both in terms of residence and decision-making about a child’s upbringing. This usually involves mediation or other form of collaborative negotiation, which results in a formal written agreement that sets out, in detail, what these arrangements entail.
We regularly guide our clients through the entire process, helping them to explore their options and reach an agreement that focuses on what is right for the child in their unique circumstances. Unfortunately, if parents cannot agree, or one party’s conduct may threaten the safety or welfare of the child, it may be necessary to ask the court to make a decision about child arrangements. Our partner Jim Robertson has over thirty years’ experience in this sensitive area, and is ready to help.
Contact our Family & Child Law Solicitors in Lanark, Hamilton & Strathaven, Scotland
We serve clients in Lanark, Carluke, Wishaw, Hamilton, Motherwell, Strathaven, Glasgow and throughout Scotland. Please contact our approachable family law solicitors on 01555 662576 or fill out our online enquiry form for more information on how we can help.