Types of Child Arrangement Orders

When parents separate, one of the most important and often most emotional questions is what happens next for the children. Where will they live? How often will they see each parent? Who makes decisions about school, healthcare, or travel? In England and Wales, these issues are usually resolved through child arrangement orders, which provide a clear legal framework focused on the child's best interests.

Understanding the different types of child arrangement orders can help parents feel more informed and prepared, whether they are reaching an agreement amicably or facing a dispute that requires court involvement. Each order serves a specific purpose; some define living arrangements, others settle one-off disagreements, and some are designed to prevent sudden decisions that could disrupt a child's life.

In this guide, we break down the key types of child arrangement orders in the UK, explain how they work in practice, and outline what parents should consider before applying to the family court.

At Wembley Solicitors, we help families understand their rights and responsibilities and guide them through the legal process with care and professionalism.

For trusted advice on child arrangement matters, contact Wembley Solicitors today on 020 3417 3700 and speak to an experienced family law solicitor.

Table of Contents

What Are Child Arrangement Orders in the UK?

Child arrangement orders are legal orders issued by the family court in England and Wales. They determine where a child will live, who they spend time with, and how parental responsibilities are shared. These orders ensure the child's welfare is prioritised and provide a clear framework for parents to follow.

4 Key Types of Child Arrangement Orders

The four key types of child arrangement orders in England and Wales include CAOs, Specific Issue Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders, and Consent Orders.

These four key types cover most legal arrangements in family law concerning children. Each order has a specific purpose, ensuring the child's best interests are prioritised while giving parents clarity and structure in managing living and contact arrangements.

1. Child Arrangements Order (CAO)

A Child Arrangements Order is the most common type of order. It sets out where a child lives and how they spend time with the other parent or carers. It includes Lives With Orders (defining the child's main home) and Spend Time With Orders (detailing visits, overnight stays, or holidays).

2. Specific Issue Order

A Specific Issue Order settles one-off disputes about a child's upbringing, such as schooling, religious upbringing, or medical treatment. It addresses a single issue without changing other living or contact arrangements.

3. Prohibited Steps Order

A Prohibited Steps Order stops a parent from making specific decisions about a child, such as taking them abroad, changing their surname, or moving them schools, without the other parent's consent or court approval. It protects the child from sudden or unilateral actions that could disrupt their life.

4. Consent Order

A Consent Order is a legally binding agreement approved by a court. It records arrangements that both parents have voluntarily agreed upon. Once approved, it carries the same weight as a court-issued order, ensuring compliance and protecting the child's welfare.

Other Related Legal Orders

In addition to the main types of child arrangement orders, there are other legal orders that play an important role during family court proceedings. These orders help manage urgent situations, provide long-term clarity, or offer professional support to families going through disputes.

1. Interim Orders

An Interim Order is a temporary arrangement made by the court while the case is still ongoing. Court proceedings can take time, and children cannot be left in uncertainty while parents wait for a final decision.

Interim orders are often used to deal with urgent matters, such as:

• Where the child should live in the short term
• Temporary contact arrangements
• Immediate safeguarding concerns

They are not permanent decisions but act as a practical solution to ensure stability and routine for the child until the court reaches its final judgment.

2. Final Orders

A Final Order is the court's conclusive decision once all evidence has been heard and considered. This order sets out long-term arrangements regarding:

• Where the child will live
• How much time they will spend with each parent
• Any additional conditions necessary to protect the child's welfare

Final orders bring clarity and legal certainty. Once made, they are legally binding and must be followed unless varied by the court at a later stage.

3. Family Assistance Order

A Family Assistance Order provides additional support to families who may be struggling to implement court-ordered arrangements. Under this order, a Cafcass officer or a local authority representative is appointed to offer guidance and practical help.

Their role may include:

• Supporting parents in managing conflict
• Assisting with communication difficulties
• Helping ensure the child's needs remain the focus

This order is particularly useful where there is ongoing tension between parents, but the court believes professional support could improve cooperation and stability for the child.

These related legal orders are designed to ensure that children's welfare remains the central focus throughout the legal process, whether arrangements are temporary, long-term, or require additional professional support.

Important Considerations for Parents

50/50 Shared Care

Some families adopt a 50/50 shared care arrangement, where a child spends equal, or near-equal, time with both parents. These arrangements aim to maintain balanced relationships, though they require careful planning to suit the child's needs.

Parental Responsibility

Parental responsibility refers to the legal rights and duties a parent has toward their child. This includes decisions about health, education, and day-to-day care. Understanding this responsibility is crucial when applying for any child arrangement order.

Mediation

Before applying to the court, parents are usually required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). Mediation helps parents explore solutions outside court, reducing conflict and focusing on the child's best interests.

Duration of Orders

• A “Lives With” order generally lasts until the child turns 18.
• A “Spend Time With” order usually lasts until the child is 16, unless the court specifies otherwise.

Why Understanding Child Arrangement Orders Matters

Knowing the types of child arrangement orders in the UK can help parents:

• Protect their child's welfare
• Avoid unnecessary disputes
• Make informed decisions about living arrangements and contact
• Understand legal rights and responsibilities

At Wembley Solicitors, our family law experts provide clear guidance and support to ensure parents make informed decisions while prioritising their child's needs.

How Do “Lives With” And “Spend Time With” Orders Work?

A “Lives With” order determines the child's primary home and which parent is responsible for their day-to-day care. A “Spend Time With” order (formerly a contact order) outlines how and when the child spends time with the other parent. These arrangements can include visits, overnight stays, holidays, and special occasions.

How Long Do Child Arrangement Orders Last?

A Lives With Order generally remains in place until the child turns 18, while a Spend Time With Order usually lasts until the child is 16, unless the court decides otherwise. Both types of orders can be changed if circumstances shift or the child's needs develop over time.

Can Parents Change a Child Arrangement Order?

Yes, child arrangement orders can be changed if there is a significant change in circumstances or if the order no longer meets the child's best interests. Parents can apply to the court for a variation of the order, or in some cases, negotiate a new agreement through mediation before returning to court.

Do Parents Have to Attend Mediation Before Going to Court?

Yes, in most cases, parents are required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to the court. Mediation helps parents explore agreements outside court, reduce conflict, and focus on the child's welfare. Exemptions apply in urgent or sensitive cases.

Do Parents Need Legal Help to Apply for Child Arrangement Orders?

While parents can apply to the court themselves, having advice from experienced family law solicitors ensures the process is smoother and protects your child's interests. Solicitors can help with:

• Understanding which type of order is appropriate
• Drafting applications and supporting evidence
• Representing you in court or during mediation

How Can Wembley Solicitors Help with Child Arrangement Orders?

At Wembley Solicitors, our family law team provides clear, compassionate guidance through all stages of child arrangement orders. We assist with:

• Advice on the right type of order for your situation
• Preparing applications and supporting evidence
• Court representation and negotiation
• Mediation support to reach amicable agreements

We prioritise the child's welfare while protecting your legal rights, making the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Speak to Expert Family Law Solicitors Today

Navigating child arrangement orders can be complex and emotionally challenging. Professional guidance ensures that you understand your rights and responsibilities and that decisions are made in your child's best interest.

If you need advice or support regarding child arrangement orders, contact Wembley Solicitors at 020 3417 3700 for compassionate, expert family law assistance.