What the Family Court Expects from Parents

When separated parents are navigating disputes over child arrangements, the Family Court plays a critical role in ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of the child. However, many parents are unaware of what the court actually expects from them during this process.

At Your Family Time Matters, we understand how emotionally overwhelming this experience can be. Whether you are representing yourself or seeking support, it’s important to know that your behaviour, cooperation, and willingness to put your child’s needs first can significantly influence the court’s view. We’re here to help guide you through that.

1. Put the Child First

The court’s priority is always the child’s welfare. As a parent, the expectation is that you focus on:

• What is best for your child, not what is most convenient or comfortable for you.

• Promoting a positive relationship with the other parent, unless doing so would place the child at risk.

• Protecting your child from harm, including shielding them from adult conflict or manipulation.

Courts take a dim view of parental behaviour that appears to prioritise control, resentment, or revenge over the child’s well-being.

2. Encourage Ongoing Contact (Where Safe)

The court generally expects both parents to facilitate and encourage regular and meaningful contact with the other parent, unless there are clear safeguarding concerns.

This includes:

• Not obstructing or limiting communication between the child and the other parent.

• Avoiding negative comments about the other parent in the child’s presence.

• Promoting consistency and stability in the child’s routine.

Obstructive behaviour without valid justification may be seen as contrary to the child’s best interests.

3. Cooperate and Communicate

The court values parents who make a genuine effort to communicate and cooperate with one another. This does not mean you need to be friends, but you are expected to:

• Respond constructively and respectfully to proposals or concerns.

• Attempt to resolve disagreements through discussion, mediation, or parenting plans.

• Avoid unnecessary escalation of disputes.

Parents who show flexibility and compromise are often viewed more favourably than those who appear rigid or adversarial.

4. Keep the Child Out of Adult Conflict

Judges are particularly concerned with the emotional impact of conflict on children. You should:

• Never ask your child to choose sides or act as a messenger.

• Avoid exposing them to court documents, adult conversations, or confrontational exchanges.

• Keep your child’s emotional and psychological wellbeing front and centre.

If the court detects signs of parental alienation or emotional manipulation, it may take decisive steps to safeguard the child.

5. Follow Court Orders and Deadlines

Parents are expected to comply with any court orders and adhere to deadlines set during proceedings. This includes:

• Attending hearings and appointments (such as Cafcass interviews).

• Submitting statements or documents on time.

• Abiding by interim or final orders, unless varied by the court.

Non-compliance may harm your credibility and result in adverse findings.

6. Take Responsibility for Progress

Even if you’re feeling unsupported or frustrated, the court expects parents to take responsibility for making progress. That might mean:

• Attending mediation or parenting programmes.

• Making practical arrangements for contact or shared care.

• Being honest and realistic about your limitations and concerns.

Parents who are proactive and child-focused are more likely to be trusted by the court to make long-term arrangements work.

How Your Family Time Matters Can Support You

We know that dealing with the family court can be daunting, especially when emotions are high and the stakes feel overwhelming. At Your Family Time Matters, we support families across England with:

• Fixed-fee guidance on child arrangements and parenting plans

• Preparation of applications and court documents

• Support with Cafcass, MIAMs, and communication with the other parent

• Ongoing strategy and emotional support throughout the process

We help you stay focused, child-centred, and prepared, ensuring you present yourself in the best possible light in front of the court.

If you’re currently facing difficulties with child arrangements or court proceedings, contact Your Family Time Matters. We're here to support you every step of the way.