Changes to Family Law Process: Pathfinder.

The way the court determine child arrangements for children with separated parents is about to change.

The process replacing the current procedure is called Pathfinder. The process is determined to consider, at the very first instance, the welfare of the children, including issues in relation to domestic abuse between parents.

I am urging parents who are concerned about their children, or who are considering applying to the family court, to seek urgent legal advice at the first opportunity.

It is extremely important that parents are able to understand the process, before either parent considers making an application to the court. There is a lot of work that can be done with the assistance of a solicitor before the process begins, in the hope that the court can either be avoided or the process shortened.

I am hopeful that the new Pathfinder procedure will avoid the current lengthy delays, often involving numerous court hearings that lead to anxiety and stress for parents, and often carry the financial impact of high legal fees. I also hope the new process will be faster, and reach a determination for the children's sake and their parents, as swiftly as possible, taking into consideration what is important for the child and keeping the child at the forefront of the decision-making process.

For more information about the Pathfinder procedure, you can listen to our podcast on the subject here: The Pathfinders Pilot Scheme in North