Post-Christmas Parenting Conflicts? Know Your Rights

The New Year is one of the most common times for separated parents to re-evaluate childcare arrangements especially after a tense or disrupted Christmas.

At Arlingsworth, we often see an increase in enquiries around child contact disputes and changes to existing arrangements in January. Whether you’re navigating your first year post-separation or returning to court due to disagreements, understanding your legal rights is essential.

Why January Can Trigger Disputes

The festive period brings unique pressures. Conflicting schedules, emotional expectations, and disputes over where children should spend key dates can leave both parents feeling frustrated. If communication breaks down over Christmas, it often resurfaces in early January as families return to routine.

Some of the most common issues we see include:

  • One parent not sticking to a pre-agreed schedule

  • Last-minute changes over Christmas holidays

  • Disagreements around future term-time contact or half-term plans

  • New partners being introduced without discussion

  • Lack of clarity around pick-ups, drop-offs or overnight stays

These problems can be upsetting but they are solvable, especially with the right legal guidance.

The Importance of a Child Arrangements Order

If no formal agreement is in place, January is a good time to consider whether a Child Arrangements Order might help. This is a legally binding court order that sets out where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent, and any other contact arrangements.

Benefits of a court-backed arrangement include:

  • Clarity and structure for both parents

  • Security and routine for children

  • Legal enforcement, in case one parent does not comply

  • Customisation, allowing schedules to suit your family’s needs

Our family solicitors can help you apply for a new order or vary an existing one if your circumstances have changed.

What If One Parent Withholds Contact?

If a parent refused contact over Christmas or repeatedly changes plans without agreement, it may be time to seek legal advice. The court’s priority is always the best interests of the child, and unjustified denial of contact can be challenged.

Before going to court, we can assist with:

  • Solicitor-led negotiation

  • Mediation services

  • Formalising any agreements in writing

  • Applying to the Family Court if necessary

Remember you do not need to tolerate uncertainty or repeated disruption. A solicitor can help you restore fairness and stability.

Putting Children First

January can feel like a time of emotional reset for separated families. While tensions may have flared during the holidays, it’s also an opportunity to reset communication, rebuild structure, and prioritise the child’s routine for the term ahead.

Key points to focus on include:

  • Minimising disruption to school routines

  • Ensuring your child is not caught in adult disputes

  • Being realistic and respectful when requesting changes

  • Making decisions that foster long-term stability

Need help resolving a child contact issue?

Whether you’re planning a new arrangement or dealing with a breakdown in communication, Arlingsworth’s family law team is here to support you with clarity, care, and practical legal solutions.

📞 01273 696962
 📩 info@arlingsworth.com