Child Arrangements

Worried about arrangements for your children after divorce or separation? Our Harrogate-based child custody experts are here to support you.

Separation can bring many anxieties for parents, particularly around where the children will live and how much time they will get to spend with each parent.

We are true family law specialists that practice solely in this complex and sensitive field. When parents break up, we know how important it is for everyone involved that child arrangements are settled with the least conflict and disruption.

Rated by clients as ‘Excellent’, our team are regularly recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners for their expertise in child arrangement and custody cases across Harrogate and the Yorkshire region.

Specialist child custody and access solicitors, on your side

When navigating difficult life moments with long-term consequences, having the right legal guidance can make all the difference.

Our highly-ranked team blends compassion with expertise. We have a decades-long track record of handling divorce and separation cases of all types sensitively and strategically, including those with unusually complex or international elements.

Our team is Resolution accredited, meaning we work in a way that minimises confrontation and prioritises child welfare and stability at every stage.

Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. Our experts will be on your side to help you and your children to take the next step in your lives to a brighter future.

Contact our child arrangements experts today

For expert advice on child custody and child access, call us today for free on

or complete our enquiry form on this page.

Clear, concise and practical legal advice for Child Arrangements Orders

Under the Children Act 1989, both parents have a legal responsibility to look after their children until they are 18 years of age or have left full-time education.

So when a divorce or separation happens, it can be difficult for parents to come to a decision about who children should live with. This can lead to tension.

In some cases, a divorcing parent may even feel that a child has become more resistant or hostile to them as a result of manipulation by the other parent – parental alienation.

We can help you to navigate these emotional issues and secure a fair, effective Child Arrangements Order.

What is a Child Arrangements Order?

A Child Arrangements Order is a court order in England and Wales. It sets out where a child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent and other important people, such as grandparents.

Parents are generally expected to try to reach agreements themselves. A solicitor can also help you work through the issues by exploring some type of non-court dispute resolution (NCDR), such as mediation or collaborative law.

Courts only typically impose a Child Arrangements Order if no agreement can be reached or there are concerns about the child’s welfare. This can be more stressful and expensive.

‘An exceptionally strong team of experienced lawyers’

Harrogate Family Law was founded in 2010 and is led by nationally-recognised Directors Andrew Meehan and Laura Mounsey.

Collectively, we’re recognised in Legal 500 as a Leading Firm and ‘a considerable force in family law within Yorkshire’, with particular ‘strength in Children Act proceedings’.

When you get in touch, we’ll arrange a fixed-fee, one-hour consultation. This can take place remotely or at our welcoming central Harrogate office – whatever is most comfortable for you.

We’ll listen and gain a clear understanding of your situation. We’ll then explain your legal rights and outline a strategy for your case.

Other family law firms prefer free 30-minute consultations, but our approach allows us to offer the most effective initial advice, tailored to your circumstances.

We’re clear, transparent and upfront about fees and can also help you explore ways to help you fund your legal costs.

Contact us today – we’re with you every step of the way.

📧 enquiries@harrogatefamilylaw.co.uk

HFL Team

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Our Expertise

Chambers 2025 - Andrew Meehan copyLegal 500 2025 - Leading Law FirmWith a leading team of solicitors, we focus on delivering an exceptional client service through the hardest of times.

Why you need Harrogate Family Law

Get a fair deal

We aim to get you everything you’re entitled to, delivering the best deal for your situation.

Keep out of court

95% of our cases are agreed out of court which saves you time, money and stress.

Avoid costly mistakes

We spot and avoid problems before they happen.

Save money

With our expert solicitors, you’ll get a better outcome and save money.

On your side

We are caring and compassionate and will look after you.

Meet the team

Recognised by Legal 500 as ‘an exceptionally strong team of experienced lawyers’ with ‘talent throughout every level of the firm’, we have experts covering all aspects of family law.

‘HFL has an exceptionally strong team of experienced lawyers, led by Laura Mounsey and Andrew Meehan, and talent throughout every level of the firm, as one would expect from a prestigious firm.’

Legal 500 2026

‘HFL have grown to become a considerable force in family law within Yorkshire, particularly with regards to high-net-worth individuals in Harrogate and the surrounding area.’

Legal 500 2026

‘Harrogate Family Law is a Legal 500 leading firm, recognised for its strong technical ability, complex financial cases, and excellent client service, with founder Andrew Meehan and lawyer Laura Mounsey specifically praised by the guide for their expertise.’

Legal 500 2025

‘The Harrogate team are personable, bespoke and client-focused. They don’t resort to a ‘one size fits all’ methodology.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘The team have a robust understanding of factors in my case and how to handle them in a way that keeps conflict to a minimum and achieves the desired outcomes.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Andrew is very understanding and has a lot of experience, meaning he can therefore adapt and manage whatever is thrown at him.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Laura made the whole process feel smooth and manageable, always taking the time to explain each step clearly and keeping me informed throughout.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘They are a tenacious and thorough team.’

Chambers & Partners 2025

‘Thank you. Your service has been invaluable during this difficult time.’

Former client, February 2025

‘The whole team is great. I know it is your job, but you are making this so much easier for me and I really appreciate all that you are doing on my behalf.’

Former client, January 2025