As the back-to-school season settles in across the UK, the colours on the leaves are changing, and many separated or divorced parents face fresh challenges when it comes to co-parenting.
From agreeing on term-time schedules to handling school communications and planning holidays, back-to-school is a time when legal clarity and cooperation are more important than ever.
Natasha Grande and Neil Graham specialise in helping clients navigate the complexities of family law with empathy and expertise. Here are some legal considerations and top tips for parents managing shared parenting responsibilities this autumn.
Review your Parenting Plan
If you already have a parenting agreement or Child Arrangements Order, now is a good time to review it. Does it reflect your child’s current school schedule and commitments? Have pick-up or drop-off routines changed? Do your children need adjustments as they’ve got older, or have their needs evolved?
Whether you’re looking to revise an informal arrangement or apply for a court variation, we can help you take the right steps.
School Communication Rights
Both parents with parental responsibility are entitled to be involved in their child’s education. Schools are legally obligated to share reports and updates with both parents upon request.
If you’re not receiving communications from your child’s school or are being excluded from school decisions, we can advise you on how to ensure your rights and voice are respected.
Disagreements About Schooling
Sometimes parents cannot agree on which school their child should attend or how to handle concerns about a school. If you share parental responsibility, these decisions must be made jointly.
If you have reached an impasse, we can assist you in negotiating an outcome, suggest holistic out of court solutions or help you apply for a Specific Issue Order, where the court will decide based on your child’s best interests.
Planning for Holidays
October half-term and the Christmas break will be quickly upon us. It is sensible to start planning now to avoid a last-minute dispute. If school holiday arrangements aren’t already in your parenting agreement, it’s best to agree them in writing well in advance.
Where agreement isn’t possible, we can help you negotiate or apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order or suggest a holistic out of court approach.
Keep the Focus on Your Child
Ultimately, the court’s (and your solicitor’s) priority is always the welfare of your child. Clear communication, cooperation, and planning can make transitions smoother for everyone involved.
If your co-parenting relationship is strained, our team is here to help you find constructive, child-focused solutions.
How G & G Law Ltd Can Help
Whether you need help updating existing orders, resolving disputes about schooling or agreeing holiday arrangements, we are here to support you every step of the way.
