Statement of Arrangements for Children

Hi All

Just a quick question.

At the beginning of the divorce process my ex filled in the statement of arrangements for children, which my solicitor amended and it was then agreed by both parties and signed off. It basically said that the children live with me with two over night stays per week with Dad (Weds & Sat).

My query is how legally binding is this document or is it just as it is called "a statement". If I wanted to change these arrangements at all would we have to go through the courts or could we do it between us and then complete a new statement of arrangements for children? I am described in the statement as resident parent, does this mean that I have custody?

I'm confused!!

Thanks

L

I signed off on my statement of arrangements but I too wish to amend them totally, I only get every second weekend and a poxy 3 hours on a Tuesday Evening whilst she does her thing. I want more, do I have to go to court, if she wont budge, at a later date. So I am hoping someone can help on this thread also.

SG

The Statement of Arrangements is just that: a statement of the arrangments for the children at the time it is filed. It is not a contact order so it is not binding. You can make changes between you and I am not even sure if you have to file another statement of arrangements.

If you are described as the resident parent that means that the children live with you on a day to day basis and you get the child benefit. Custody as a concept doesn't exist any more: it is residence and contact.

Sadie

I know we are all different and every second weekend would suit some fathers, NOT ME. What is a realistic timeframe to request of my s2bx without coming across greedy, I would like him 100% of the time, but would love 50/50 but I am sure she would not go for that without a full on fight in front of the beak. I work mon-fri 9-5 cannot get out of work to pick him up, can arrange for my dad to, I would love more sleepovers, I grieve the death of my marriage, why should I have to give up the fight for my son. What is a reasonable request!!!

HI
If you can agree you can change the arangements. My sol said they are to give the court an idea ofwhat is going to happen. If you cant agree then contact arrangement can be made through court

Hello Sadie is quite right and you dont need to file a change if you both agrea.

That's great. Thanks everyone.

L