Do I need permission to relocate with my child?

Yes, if you share parental responsibility, you must obtain the other parent’s consent or a court order to relocate. This ensures that the move is in the best interests of the child.

What factors does the Court consider in child relocation cases?

The Court’s primary concern is the child’s welfare. Factors considered include the child’s relationship with both parents, the impact of the move, and the reasons for relocation. Our solicitors will help you present a strong case.

What should I do if my ex-partner wants to relocate with our child?

If you oppose the relocation, it is important to seek legal advice promptly. We can help you understand your rights and represent your interests in negotiations or Court proceedings.

What are the legal requirements for taking my child on holiday abroad?

If you plan to take your child abroad, you may need the other parent’s consent or a Court order. This is to ensure that the holiday arrangements are in the best interests of the child and comply with legal requirements.

What if my ex-partner refuses to agree to holiday plans?

If you cannot reach an agreement, we can help you explore legal options, including applying for a Court order. Our goal is to ensure that your child can enjoy their holiday without unnecessary stress or conflict.

Child Relocation Solicitors | Family Law Experts

Resolving disputes over where your children live

If you are separated from your partner, disputes can often arise over who has the right to take your children on holiday or to live abroad. At Nelsons, our family law solicitors in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham can offer expert legal advice and support concerning child relocation and holiday arrangements. Our team is here to guide you through the process with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to protecting your child’s best interests.

Related services

Understanding child relocation

Child relocation involves moving a child to a different location, either within the UK or abroad. This can be a contentious issue, especially if one parent opposes the move. Our experienced family law solicitors are here to support you through this process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and your child’s welfare is prioritised.

Key considerations:

Consent – If you share parental responsibility, you must obtain the other parent’s consent or a Court order to relocate.
Best interests of the child – The Court’s primary concern is the child’s welfare. Factors considered include the child’s relationship with both parents, the impact of the move, and the reasons for relocation.
Legal process – We guide you through the legal process, from mediation to Court applications, ensuring your case is presented effectively.

Whether it’s a domestic move or an international relocation, we understand the sensitive nature of these matters and work diligently to achieve the best outcome for both parents and, most importantly, the child. Our goal is to ensure the child’s well-being while taking into account the rights and responsibilities of both parents.

Holiday arrangements

Planning holidays can be stressful, especially when it involves coordinating with an ex-partner. At Nelsons, we help you navigate these arrangements smoothly, ensuring that your child’s needs are met and conflicts are minimised.

Key points:

Agreement – Both parents should agree on holiday plans, including dates, destinations, and travel arrangements.
Legal requirements – If you plan to take your child abroad, you may need the other parent’s consent or a Court order.
Dispute resolution – We offer mediation services to help resolve any disagreements amicably, avoiding the need for Court intervention.

We excel in negotiating the arrangements and helping parents reach agreements that consider the child’s needs and the family’s unique circumstances. Our focus is on fostering communication and cooperation to create workable solutions. Should legal intervention be necessary, our solicitors are well-versed in family law Court proceedings. We provide experienced legal representation to protect your rights and uphold the best interests of your child.

Please note that we can only advise on a Legal Aid basis for public law/care proceedings.

Meet the team

Melanie Bridgen
Partner & Solicitor
Gayle Rowley
Partner, Solicitor & Mediator
Joanne Millership
Legal Director & Solicitor
Rina Mistry
Legal Director & Solicitor
Naomi Bond
Senior Associate & Solicitor

View Full Team

Why choose Nelsons?

Expertise – Our solicitors specialise exclusively in family law, with a focus on child relocation and holiday arrangements, and include Resolution Accredited Specialists, Law Society Family Panel & Advanced Family Panel members and Law Society Children Panel Members. Our expertise in family and children law is also recognised by the independent directories, The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.
Compassion – We understand the emotional challenges that often accompany family law matters. Our team approaches each case with empathy, providing support and guidance to help you navigate the legal process with care.
Client-centric approach – Your needs and concerns are our top priority. We tailor our services to your specific situation, working collaboratively with you to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.
Results-oriented – Our solicitors are dedicated to achieving positive results for our clients. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or court representation, we pursue resolutions that prioritize the well-being of your child.

Testimonials…

"Nelsons Solicitors Limited has an experienced family and children law practice, and is noted for its strength in cases with an international element. The family team...regularly advises high-net-worth individuals on financial relief cases..."

The Legal 500
"...Melanie Bridgen, who heads up the children team, is experienced in complex children proceedings; this includes matters concerning international relocation, parental alienation and non-accidental injuries."

The Legal 500 (Continued)
“Accomplished practice noted for both matrimonial and childcare matters. Appropriately equipped to assist with public and private children law, including adoptions, child abductions and non-accidental injury cases..."

Chambers and Partners
"...Active in high-value financial remedy matters, including those involving trusts, commercial assets and cross-border aspects.”

Chambers and Partners (Continued)
"Nelsons...is a leading firm in family law. They represent people from all walks of life and always give 110% to all of their cases. Their diversity is exceptional. Unlike other solicitors they are always on hand to speak by phone or email, night or day or weekend..."

The Legal 500 2023
"...They will take the most challenging pro bono cases to ensure that clients have the best representation and advocacy."

The Legal 500 2023 (Continued)
"Midlands powerhouse Nelsons Solicitors Limited houses family law specialists in each of its three offices, led by Emma Davies (in Nottingham); Melanie Bridgen (Derby)..."

The Legal 500 2023
"The firm is particularly recommended for its capabilities in dealing with international children law cases, a specialism of Bridgen, as well as, surrogacy, unravelling trusts, complex business arrangements and divorce..."

The Legal 500 2023 (Continued)
"Superb family law team, class A and the absolute go to in children law and financial relief on divorce. They far outweigh their competitors in every aspect. The people provide hands on support and client care from the outset concentrating on strategy and approach..."

Referee feedback provided to The Legal 500 2024
"...Given their wealth of experience, they are financially competitive."

Referee feedback provided to The Legal 500 2024 (Continued)
"Nelsons are an well-established and highly respected firm, deservedly so. They cover a number of disciplines with the utmost professionalism. They are a pleasure to deal with and prominent in the local legal community."

Referee feedback provided to The Legal 500 2024

If you require advice in relation to your legal rights to take your child on holiday or with regards to permanent child relocation, please contact our team of expert family law solicitors via our online form or call 0800 024 1976 for a guaranteed response.

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Child Relocation & Holidays FAQS

Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions concerning

Do I need permission to relocate with my child?

Yes, if you share parental responsibility, you must obtain the other parent’s consent or a court order to relocate. This ensures that the move is in the best interests of the child.
What factors does the Court consider in child relocation cases?

The Court’s primary concern is the child’s welfare. Factors considered include the child’s relationship with both parents, the impact of the move, and the reasons for relocation. Our solicitors will help you present a strong case.
What should I do if my ex-partner wants to relocate with our child?

If you oppose the relocation, it is important to seek legal advice promptly. We can help you understand your rights and represent your interests in negotiations or Court proceedings.
What are the legal requirements for taking my child on holiday abroad?

If you plan to take your child abroad, you may need the other parent’s consent or a Court order. This is to ensure that the holiday arrangements are in the best interests of the child and comply with legal requirements.
What if my ex-partner refuses to agree to holiday plans?

If you cannot reach an agreement, we can help you explore legal options, including applying for a Court order. Our goal is to ensure that your child can enjoy their holiday without unnecessary stress or conflict.