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| CONTACT
INFORMATION SHEET |
Can I still apply for an Access
Order?
No. The Children Act 1989 has replaced access and
access orders with contact and contact orders.
What is a Contact Order?
A Contact Order is an order requiring the person
with whom the child now lives to allow the child
to visit or stay with you.
How do I obtain a Contact Order?
You need to make an application to a court. This
will be in the Magistrates Court, the County Court
or even the High Court in a difficult case.
The court must consider the child's needs as paramount
and apply the following checklist before making
an Order:
1) The ascertainable wishes and feelings of the
child concerned (considered in the light of their
age and understanding).
2) His or her physical, emotional and educational
needs.
3) The likely effect on the child of any change
in circumstances.
4) The child's age, sex, background and any characteristics
that the court considers relevant.
5) Any harm which the child has suffered or is at
risk of suffering.
6) How capable each of the child's parents are,
or any other person in relation to whom the court
considers the question to be relevant, is of meeting
the child's needs.
7) The range of powers available to the court under
the Children Act.
Further advice should be sought from your solicitors. |
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