What is a Child Arrangements Order – Spend time with (Contact)?

This is an order which can be made in private children law proceedings which states the contact a person can have with the child. This can include specific time and dates, including holidays and how they are shared. It can also include the frequency of contact and whether it needs to be supervised or unsupervised.

What is a Child Arrangements Order – Living with (Residence)?

This is an order which can be made in private children law proceedings which states with whom the child lives with.

What is a Prohibited Steps Order?

This is an order to prevent someone from carrying out a particular action without the court’s agreement. An example of this can be removing the child from the jurisdiction, having contact with named individual, changing a child’s name/surname, changing a child’s school, etc.

What is a Specific Issue Order?

This is an order usually relating to something specific such as an issue with education, medical decisions, and holidays. This type of order is sought when it is limited to a single issue which may arise in respect of a child’s upbringing.

Disclaimer: The material contained in this fact sheet is for general guidance only. It is specific to the law of England and Wales, and represents a brief outline of the law current as at the date of the fact sheet. It is not intended to constitute, or to be a substitute for, legal advice specific to your case.

Information up to date as at 10/3/23