Soft Toys

All aspects of looking after the best interests of children, including care and financial.

Fitzhugh Gates are well recognised for our professional approach and knowledge of all types of cases relating to children. We frequently conduct cases involving applications for a residence order, contact order, prohibited steps order, specific issue order, adoption order, special guardianship order, supervision order and care order.

Your children are a prime consideration of both the court and us. When the court looks at non financial applications concerning children, they consider what is known as the “Welfare Checklist” which provides as follows:

  • The ascertainable wishes and feelings of the child concerned (considered in the light of their age and understanding);
  • His/her physical, emotional and educational needs;
  • The likely effect on him/her of any change in their circumstances;
  • His/her age, sex, background and any characteristics of his/hers which the Court considers relevant;
  • Any harm which he/she has suffered or is at risk of suffering;
  • How capable each of his/her parents, and any other person in relation to whom the Court considers the question to be relevant, is of meeting his/her needs;
  • The range of powers available to the Court under this Act in the proceedings in question.

Our family team of solicitors are experienced in preparing and advocating these kinds of cases and are in court on many occasions each week.

However, wherever possible parties are encouraged to try to resolve matters without reverting to the court arena and where appropriate we are able to refer clients to mediation services.

Additionally we are able to advise you about financial applications which can be made in relation to children under the Children Act 1989 and guide you in relation to Child Support calculations.

Head of department: Julian Cioffi - Managing Partner


How to get help with legal problems

If there was ever a top tip when it comes to dealing with a legal problem it is to get proper advice from an experienced solicitor sooner rather than later. Asking us for help could not be easier; you can contact us in Brighton and Hove or Shoreham-by-Sea, or use our online priority enquiry form.