HOW CAN YOUR BARRISTER HELP YOU AS A LITIGANT IN PERSON

INFORMATION ON A PARENTING PLAN

Important note: Please note that this information is not intended to be legal advice. You are advised to seek legal advice.

This information provides on overview on a parenting plan.

Parenting Plan

A parenting plan is a voluntary, written agreement between parents (and can include grandparents and other family members).

The plan covers practical issues in relation to the children such as living arrangements, education, healthcare and finances and it aims to assist parents in resolving arrangements amicably and informally.

Cafcass Parenting Plan

You can access online the Cafcass (The Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service) template for a parenting plan template accompanied by a guidance document.

Support with writing parenting plan

Parents can use a dispute resolution service, such as mediation, to assist in the process of agreeing a parenting plan.

A mediator is an independent practitioner who will facilitate the conversation between the parties with a view to helping them to reach a satisfactory outcome.

Is a parenting plan legally binding?

A parenting plan is not automatically legally binding. However, there is the option of formalising the agreement through a Consent Order.

Parenting plan – Attending court

A court application should be the last resort.

If a parent does apply to court for an order under a child arrangement order to enforce the parenting plan, there is a process to follow which involves you completing a C100 form and your barrister can provide legal advice on the preparation of your case so you can bring the matter before the court.