There are unprecedented pressures on family law professionals, parents, and the Family Court. However, rather than throwing up our hands in horror, family lawyers have opportunities now to reduce conflict when negotiating child arrangements for separated families.
The COVID-19 Outbreak has created a significant increase in confusion and distress for parents. Family lawyers have received multiple enquiries about where children should stay, amid complaints that neither children are being returned nor being made available to spend time or live with the other parent. The social distancing measures are challenging enough for children who face disruption to their education, health and care arrangements, without the added burden of parental conflict.
On 24 March, Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division, clarified that while children under 18 can be moved between their parent’s homes under the government guidance issued alongside the Stay at Home rules, this did not mean children must be moved between homes. If in agreement, parents could
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