Expert legal help with relocation of children
Both parents with parental rights and responsibilities are entitled to decide where their child should live. When a relationship breaks down and if your ex-partner advises that he/she wishes to move with your child to a different area, city or even country against your wishes, you need to get immediate and legal advice. If necessary, we can obtain protection from the court until a final decision is made, either by agreement or an order of court, as to where the child should reside and with whom.
If you have the least suspicion that your ex-partner might abscond with your child with contact us immediately so that we can take the appropriate action. Early intervention is key and will allow us to obtain protective court orders to keep your child safe.
If the parents cannot agree, the court will decide if the relocation should be allowed. Ultimately the court must agree that the proposed move is in the child’s best interests. There are many factors that the court look at such as the reasonableness of the proposed move, the importance of contact with the other parent, what that might look like if relocation was granted and the child’s views should he/she/they be old enough to express them. The onus is very firmly on the relocating parent to demonstrate and evidence why the child should live elsewhere.
We have significant experience in relocation cases, not just within Scotland but worldwide. Have a look at our case studies here
How much will it cost?
Defended relocation cases are extremely expensive and once we have fully assessed your particular circumstances we can give you a better understanding of what is involved, not only in terms of our fees but also the cost of additional expertise that may be required. We always offer your first meeting (one hour) with one of our experienced family law solicitors at a fixed fee of £340+VAT. We then follow up with recommendations and options, including detailed costs, on the most appropriate and cost-effective way to proceed.
We offer a free 10 minute telephone call with one of our solicitors to discuss how we can help.
Frequently asked questions to consider…
Wise words from Beverley
“Whatever you agree about how best your children are cared for at the time of separation may not be in their best interests in a few years time. Always be open to the idea that relationships, opportunities and circumstances can change and that what was decided even by a Court at a certain moment in time may not necessarily be in the child’s best interests until they are sixteen years of age.”
We can help you right now
Our commitment to provide you with the best possible advice includes a free initial phone call with one of our experts. This allows us to fully prepare for your first meeting which we always offer at a fixed fee rate.
We understand that seeking Family Law advice can be daunting. However, when you get in touch with us, you will find a tailored, highly personal and reassuring approach which will empower you to take back control.
Recent Case Studies, Articles and Information
I’m Worried My Ex Won’t Let Me See My Children This Summer: A Guide for Concerned Parents
As the summer holidays approach, many separated parents look forward to spending quality time with their children. However, if you’re worried that your ex might prevent you from seeing [...]
Case Study: Securing a fair financial settlement
Problem Our client was involved in a protracted action of divorce over a period of almost 3 years due to the complication of alleged assault by one of the [...]
Case Study: Putting the child’s best interest first, always
Problem Our client, the father, had a very difficult relationship with the mother of their two young children. The mother refused to allow our client to have overnight care [...]
Case Study: Resolving the complex issue of international relocation
Problem Our client, the father, did not want the mother to relocate from Scotland to the Far East with the couple’s five year old child. The mother was from [...]
My Ex Had the Kids for Christmas Last Year and Won’t Let Me This Year: What Can I Do?
The festive season is often a joyful time, especially for families. However, when parents separate, Christmas can become a source of stress and heartache, particularly when it comes to deciding [...]
I’m Worried My Ex Won’t Let Me See My Children This Summer: A Guide for Concerned Parents
As the summer holidays approach, many separated parents look forward to spending quality time with their children. However, if you’re worried that your ex might prevent you from seeing your [...]
Are Cohabitation Agreements Legally Binding?
Cohabitation agreements act as an insurance policy for unmarried couples living together or those who aren’t in a civil partnership, helping to clarify rights, responsibilities, and financial arrangements. A question [...]
What rights do Grandparents have in Scotland?
Grandparents play a hugely important role in the lives of many children and they are often at the heart of the family unit. When parents decide to separate, it comes [...]
Co-Parents urged to make Christmas arrangements amid 8-week warning
Head of Family Law Beverley Johnson was recently interviewed about co-parenting arrangements over Christmas and her advice was featured in a number of newspapers including The The Herald, Glasgow Times [...]
Tips for celebrating Halloween as separated parents
If you have young children, they are likely to be excited at the prospect of dressing up, trick-or-treating, and carving pumpkins this Halloween. However, for divorced or separated parents, this [...]
Everything you need to know about father’s rights and responsibilities in Scotland
What are parental rights and responsibilities? Parental rights and responsibilities allow parents to make decisions about their child’s life. This includes the child’s name, the child’s religion, where the child [...]
Here to help in a full range of family legal matters…
A stitch in time – consider investing in an agreement to reflect what you both want to happen financially, should your relationship come to an end.
Sort it without court costs – these contracts regulate your separation. From your children to financial matters, these allow you to proceed to an undefended divorce.
Sometimes you need smart experienced lawyers to guide you through the complex legal system to help you deal with the end of your marriage, and to ensure a fair division of all matrimonial property.
Your children are your absolute priority so they are our priority too. We can work hard to help you in all disputes about Parental Rights and Responsibilities including residence and contact.
The law offers limited protection for cohabitees, governed by strict rules. We can make sure you receive a fair deal at the end of your relationship.
At your most vulnerable, we will make sure you and your family is protected.