Fighting for Fatherhood? We’ll Stand With You Every Step of the Way.
At Arlingsworth Solicitors, we understand how tough it is when you’re a father trying to stay in your child’s life after a separation. Whether you’re fighting to gain custody, secure regular contact, or defend your rights as a dad, we’re here to help you take control of the situation — legally and confidently.
Get the Legal Support You Need
You Deserve to Be a Father – And Your Child Deserves to Know You
Being separated from your child can be heartbreaking — especially when you feel like the system is working against you. But you have legal rights as a father, and a Child Arrangement Order can help secure your role in your child’s life.
Whether you’re fighting for shared custody, regular access, or just to be heard in court, our family law solicitors are experts in helping men navigate the legal process with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
What Is a Child Arrangement Order?
A Child Arrangement Order is a court order that decides where a child lives, who they spend time with, and how contact is maintained between separated parents. It’s legally binding, and both parties must comply.
If you’re struggling to agree with your ex about when and how you see your child, applying for this order may be the best step forward.
We Help Fathers Who Want To:
- Secure regular time with their children
- Apply for joint or sole custody
- Challenge unfair or restrictive contact arrangements
- Prevent being sidelined or alienated
- Respond to false allegations
- Enforce an existing court order that’s being ignored
The Legal Process – What to Expect
Before you go to court, the law requires you to attend a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM). It’s a chance to see if issues can be resolved without court — but if that fails, we’ll help you move forward with confidence.
If mediation doesn’t work or isn’t safe (e.g., due to domestic abuse), we’ll help you submit a C100 form to the court to begin the process of applying for a Child Arrangement Order.
You and your ex will attend court for the first time, along with CAFCASS, who will assess the situation and recommend what’s best for the child. We’ll prepare you thoroughly for this hearing and represent you throughout.
If needed, the court may hold additional hearings. The goal is always to reach an agreement — but if not, the judge will decide based on what’s best for the child.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll guide you through the process and help you fight for the relationship you deserve with your child.
Common Questions Fathers Ask Us
Yes — more than ever before. Courts now recognise the importance of children having strong relationships with both parents, unless there’s clear evidence it’s unsafe. You have a voice, and we’ll help make sure it’s heard.
Yes — especially if you’ve been the primary carer or the other parent is unfit. We’ll assess your unique circumstances and advise you honestly on your chances.
If you’ve been blocked from contact unfairly, a Child Arrangement Order can legally enforce your right to see your children — and stop your ex from making all the decisions.
- We fight for fathers’ rights
- Specialists in high-conflict cases and unfair accusations
- Offices in Brighton and London, remote services UK-wide
- Proven success helping dads reconnect with their kids
If your child is at risk, or you’re being denied access suddenly, you may be able to apply for an Emergency Child Arrangement Order. We’ll move quickly to protect your rights and your child’s safety.
The court application fee is £215, and we offer flexible legal support based on your needs — from one-off consultations to full legal representation. In some situations involving abuse or risk, Legal Aid may be available.