To apply for a CAO, you must first consider attending Do I have to attend a MIAM? Under section 10(1) of the Children and Families Act 2014, it is a requirement to attend MIAM prior to making an application for a court order (in most cases). You therefore have to attend a MIAM session if you […]

A Child Arrangement Order is an order from the Court which details the arrangements for a child, including where the child will live and how they will spend time with each parent. Such an order made by the Court is legally binding on the parents of the child. Child Arrangement Orders have replaced Contact Orders […]

If the residence and contact arrangements for your children are set out in a Child Arrangements Order and one parent breaches the terms, can you change a Child Arrangements Order? What is a Child Arrangements Order? Child Arrangements Orders are governed by Section 8 of the Children Act 1989, and is usually made if those who […]

What is neurodiversity? “Neurodiversity” is the concept that there is natural variation in how people’s brains work, with no single “correct” way, and that a wide range of perceptions and responses to the world should be accepted and encouraged, including those of children with ADHD, autism, and learning differences. How is a child’s neurodiversity considered in […]

Family Justice Council has published ‘Guidance on responding to a child’s unexplained reluctance, resistance or refusal to spend time with a parent and allegations of alienating behaviour.’ In summary, the guidance: The Guidance contains five ‘Guidance Notes’, dealing with Case Management, the Voice of the Child, Welfare Decisions where Findings of Alienating Behaviours have been […]

Cafcass has announced a new DOMESTIC ABUSE PRACTICE POLICY. The Press release accompanying the publication of the document is forthright in determining that cafcass has to do better in order to ensure they protect women and children within the family court system. Chief executive Jacky Tiotto states…… “I am sorry that some four years on from […]

The report begins with the following quote……………“Domestic violence is a 50/50 thing.” “It’s not like you were beaten.” “Maybe one day you’ll be able to forget what happened.” Athena Stavrou then goes onto state “These are just some of the shocking comments that vulnerable women say they have been forced to face in court – […]

Having to attend the family court for child arrangements hearings can be intimidating. You may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help. Women’s McKenzie Friend is here to support you leading up to and on the day of your hearing. We cover the whole of London including the West […]

Women’s McKenzie Friend has extended it’s support and services to Women who live within London and Greater London. The Central Family Court is just one of the courts that we will cover. At the Central Family Court we offer support at court with Child Arrangements Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders and Specific Issues Orders . At […]

Women’s McKenzie Friend has extended it’s support and services to Women who live within London and Greater London. The West London Family Court is just one of the courts that we will cover. At the West London Family Court we offer support at court with Child Arrangements Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders, Specific Issues Orders and […]