If you and your ex-partner cannot agree holiday or child relocation arrangements, will the Courts decide issues for you?

Yes, the Courts can make decisions on: Who can take the child on holiday (temporary removal from the jurisdiction) Who can relocate the child to another country (permanent removal to another jurisdiction) A person with parental responsibility can take a child abroad for up to 28 days with the permission of everyone who has parental responsibility for that child. If there is a Child Arrangements Order – live with or Residence Order in place, then the parent the child lives with does not need the permission of the other parent for a trip of up to 28 days. However, it is advisable to always inform the other parent of a planned trip. The Courts will always treat the welfare and best interests of the child as the most important factor in any decision.

What happens if you do not apply for permission?

If a parent takes the child abroad, whether on holiday or permanently, without the permission of everyone with parental responsibility or the Court, then they will be committing the civil and criminal offence of child abduction. This means they could face fines, unpaid work order or a prison sentence.

Child Relocation Solicitors | Nelsons | Derby Leicester Nottingham

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 can offer expert legal advice and support concerning child relocation and holiday arrangements. Navigating family law can be complex, and our team is here to guide you through the process with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to protecting the best interests of your child.

How we can help

If you are concerned that your ex-partner may want to take your child abroad without your permission, or if you wish to take your child abroad, our experienced team in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham can help. We can provide assistance in all matters relating to taking children abroad or permanently relocating them.

In respect of cases involving the relocation of children, 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. If you are seeking to relocate with your child or opposing a proposed relocation, we can assist in filing or contesting the application. Our goal is to ensure the child’s well-being while taking into account the rights and responsibilities of both parents.

With regards to taking a child on holiday, we excel in negotiating and mediating the arrangements, 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.

Why choose Nelsons?

Expertise – Our solicitors specialise exclusively in family law, with a focus on child relocation and holiday arrangements, and includes 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

Contact us

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.

Child relocation and holidays FAQs

If you and your ex-partner cannot agree holiday or child relocation arrangements, will the Courts decide issues for you?
Yes, the Courts can make decisions on:
- Who can take the child on holiday (temporary removal from the jurisdiction)
- Who can relocate the child to another country (permanent removal to another jurisdiction)
A person with parental responsibility can take a child abroad for up to 28 days with the permission of everyone who has parental responsibility for that child.

If there is a Child Arrangements Order – live with or Residence Order in place, then the parent the child lives with does not need the permission of the other parent for a trip of up to 28 days. However, it is advisable to always inform the other parent of a planned trip.

The Courts will always treat the welfare and best interests of the child as the most important factor in any decision.
What happens if you do not apply for permission?

If a parent takes the child abroad, whether on holiday or permanently, without the permission of everyone with parental responsibility or the Court, then they will be committing the civil and criminal offence of child abduction. This means they could face fines, unpaid work order or a prison sentence.