Following the Covid-19 lockdown, the government made it clear that children can move between households.
This situation was later explained by the most senior Judge in the country, Sir Andrew McFarlane. His advice included that one parent could prevent their child visiting the other parent. This would only be if, following an assessment of the circumstances, that parent believed it to be too risky.
For separated parents who work together and communicate, this would be a joint decision. For others, it would be a sensible decision to protect, for example, elderly relatives living in the same household.
To parents who have been stopped from seeing their children during the lockdown, it may appear that the other parent is using the opportunity to their advantage.
We have seen a surge in applications to the courts from parents who are being denied face to face contact with their children.
We are finding that the courts are trying to deal with these applications quickly. They recognise the injustice some parents are facing. Once a hearing is listed, usually by telephone, Judges are usually dealing with these applications robustly and at that hearing.
Should you require any advice or assistance in how to see your children during lockdown, please get in touch at office@childreninthemiddle.co.uk or phone us on 0117 214 1797.