Involving Children in decisions which affect them is encouraged by child professionals and the courts.

But that’s NOT the same as delegating those decisions to them.

Children’s wishes matter to the Family Court. The extent to which they influence the overall outcome will depend on a variety of factors, including the child’s age, level of maturity and the extent to which their views are considered to be their own rather than influenced by a parent.

The way family judges find out what children think is normally by asking for their wishes and feelings to be ascertained by a court-appointed welfare officer who will meet the child and prepare a report for the judge summarising their views, and also set out that professional’s recommendations about the future child arrangements.

But you don’t have to wait for court proceedings to canvass your children’s views. Quite the opposite in fact. Involving children in decisions which affect them is encouraged by child professionals and the courts, but the key is finding a way to involve your children without them feeling that they are stuck in the middle, or needing to choose between you. Engaging a co-parenting professional, who is qualified to work with children, can be a game changer for some families.

If you have more questions about this topic or any other legal issues arising on Divorce or separation, please do get in touch as we are always happy to help. You can call us on 0203 488 4475 or email [email protected].uk.

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