Clear, steady guidance for parents navigating difficult situations by Kuldeep S. Clair, Senior Solicitor and Advocate, 25+ years experience.
When parents separate, the most important issue is always the same: what arrangements will work best for the children. These cases can be emotional, urgent and sometimes complex. At a time when parents feel vulnerable, they need advice that is calm, practical and grounded in real experience.
Yes it I help parents resolve disputes sensibly wherever possible, but I act firmly and decisively when a case requires it. You deal directly with me throughout, and I provide a seamless service from initial advice through to representation in court when needed.
What I advise on
I act in all private‑law children disputes, including residence, contact arrangements, shared care, specific issue orders, prohibited steps orders, holiday arrangements, international travel, safeguarding concerns and urgent applications. These are the everyday issues parents face, and they require clear guidance and steady handling.
My approach to children cases
Children cases are not about “winning”. They are about stability, safety and workable arrangements. My approach is to give clear advice from the outset, to keep matters constructive wherever possible, and to negotiate sensible arrangements that reduce conflict. When the other parent is obstructive, unreasonable or making allegations, I act decisively to protect your position and to ensure the children’s welfare remains central.
The court’s paramount consideration is the welfare of the children. In general, the court takes the view that it is in the interests of children to have a meaningful relationship with both parents unless there is a good reason to restrict or prevent contact. Modern courts do not favour mothers or fathers. They focus on the practical realities of each case, the children’s needs, and the ability of each parent to meet those needs. My advice reflects this balanced, child‑focused approach, and I act for both mothers and fathers in equal measure.
Advocacy: a seamless and cost‑effective service
Unlike many solicitors, I regularly advocate for my clients in court. This provides a seamless service and is often more cost‑effective than instructing a barrister. By representing you personally, I utilise 25 years of experience in family law advocacy, and you are not placed in the position of meeting an unfamiliar barrister on the day of a hearing at a time when you may already be feeling emotional and vulnerable. Clients consistently tell me that this continuity is reassuring and helps them feel more confident throughout the process.
Recent experience
I regularly act in complex and sensitive child arrangements disputes. Recent matters (fully anonymised) include re‑establishing contact after long periods of separation, managing cases involving safeguarding concerns and multi‑agency involvement, negotiating shared‑care arrangements where communication had broken down, securing specific issue orders for schooling and international travel, and representing clients in contested hearings involving multiple professionals and allegations. These cases require patience, strategic thinking and a steady hand, and I bring these qualities to every matter.
Frequently asked questions
Do courts favour mothers or fathers in child arrangements cases?
Neither – modern courts do not favour either parent. The court’s focus is the children’s welfare and the practical realities of each case. In general, the court considers it beneficial for children to have a meaningful relationship with both parents unless there is a good reason to restrict contact.
Can a father get shared care?
Yes. Shared care arrangements are increasingly common and depend on the children’s needs, the parents’ availability and the practical arrangements. The court does not assume that mothers should be the primary carers.
What happens if my ex refuses contact?
If negotiation or mediation does not resolve matters, you can apply for a Child Arrangements Order. The court will consider the children’s welfare and the reasons contact is being refused.
Do I need a barrister for a child arrangements hearing?
Not necessarily. I regularly advocate for clients in court, providing a seamless and cost‑effective service. This avoids the need to meet an unfamiliar barrister on the day of the hearing and ensures continuity throughout your case.
Can I get a fixed fee?
Yes. I offer a fixed‑fee initial one-hour consultation and clear costs information for the next steps.
Clear, steady advice when you need it most
Children cases can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to deal with them alone. I offer a fixed‑fee initial consultation and can explain your options clearly and confidentially. You are welcome to contact me directly.
