Disagreements over how a child spends time with each parent or guardian can be stressful and emotionally challenging. When parents cannot reach an agreement, the County Court can step in to make decisions through contact hearings (also called child arrangement hearings). These hearings focus on what is in the best interests of the child.
What Are Contact Hearings?
Contact hearings are legal proceedings that resolve disputes over contact with a child. They are designed to ensure that the child’s welfare is protected while balancing the rights of both parents or guardians. These hearings operate under the principles set out in the Children Act 1989 in England and Wales.
Types of Contact Hearings
What the Court Considers
During contact hearings, the court takes into account several important factors:
The child’s wishes and feelings, based on their age and maturity
Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs
Any history of harm or potential risk
The importance of maintaining safe relationships with both parents
Practical matters like distance between homes or parental work schedules
Possible Outcomes
Contact arrangements can take various forms:
Unsupervised or supervised contact
Indirect contact, such as letters or phone calls if direct contact is unsafe
Temporary or long-term arrangements depending on what serves the child’s best interests
Contact hearings can be complex and emotionally charged, requiring careful balancing of competing interests to protect the child’s welfare.
