Legal Articles by Court Help Limited

A domestic abuse protection order (DAPO) can protect you from every kind of domestic abuse. Where the pilot runs, who can apply and how.

Since 15 July 2026, councils in England must offer parents a family group conference before applying for a care or supervision order. Here's how it works.

The legal age to get married in England and Wales is 18. Since 27 February 2023, 16 and 17 year olds can't marry or form a civil partnership, even with consent.

Do you need a MIAM before court for a financial order? What changed in April 2024: exemptions, Form A, Form FM5 and costs.

What does child maintenance cover at Christmas? How CMS payments work, why presents and extras aren't included, and how parents can agree extra costs.

Feeling unsafe at home or around an ex this Christmas? How to get a non-molestation order, ask for an emergency order, and who to call for help.

Christmas contact refused or cancelled? What you can do with or without a court order, the C79 and C100 forms, and the steps to take on the day.

Usually you can't take a child abroad without consent from everyone with parental responsibility. Here's who must agree, the 28-day rule, what to do if your ex says no before Christmas, and the new offence from 6 November 2026.

It isn't too late to apply to court for Christmas contact, but a hearing before 25 December can't be guaranteed. Here's how the C100, MIAM, fee and Cafcass steps work, and what you can do in the meantime.

Since 26 February 2024, it has been free to apply to the Child Maintenance Service in England, Wales and Scotland. The old £20 application fee was scrapped; Collect and Pay fees still apply.

Since 21 July 2022, abusers can't cross-examine their victims in person in family courts in England and Wales. Here's what changed and what it means for you.

Are you in a situation where you or a loved one is facing harassment, threats, or domestic abuse? It's crucial to know that help is available. One significant step you can take is applying for a non-molestation order through the UK family courts. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of seeking legal protection and peace of mind. What is a Non Molestation Order? Before delving into the application process, it's essential to understand what a non-molestation order

When a child cannot live with their parents, finding the right solution to ensure their safety and well-being is crucial. Child welfare guardianship plays a vital role in providing stability and care for children in need. It offers a legal framework that allows a trusted adult to take responsibility for a child’s upbringing, education, and health. This post will guide you through the essentials of child welfare guardianship, helping you understand how it works and why it matt

When facing family-related legal issues, the process can feel overwhelming. Whether you are dealing with child custody, divorce, or protection orders, understanding the scope of comprehensive family support is essential. This support covers a wide range of legal services designed to help you through difficult times with clarity and confidence. In this article, I will guide you through the key aspects of family law, explain how specialized assistance can make a difference, and

When a child cannot live with their birth parents, finding a stable and loving home becomes a priority. One legal option that provides this stability is special guardianship. This arrangement offers a child a secure family environment while maintaining important connections to their birth family. In this post, I will explain the key benefits of special guardianship and how it can help you provide a safe and supportive home for a child in need. Understanding Guardianship Benef

Stopping the Extension of a Non-Molestation Order in the UK In this article, we will discuss how to stop the extension of a non-molestation order in the UK. We will explore the legal framework surrounding non-molestation orders, the criteria for their extension, and the options available to challenge an extension. 1. What is a Non-Molestation Order? A non-molestation order is a civil order made by the family court to protect an individual from violence, threats, harassment, o

Last updated: 23 October 2026 · Written by the family law paralegal team at Court Help Limited In short: To vary, extend or discharge a non-molestation order, you apply to the court that made it on form FL403. You must apply while the order is still in force. Either the person protected or the person the order is made against can apply. The court will usually hold a hearing, and it'll look at whether the order is still needed to protect the applicant or a child. Key facts abo

When facing family-related legal issues, the process can feel overwhelming and confusing. Whether you are dealing with child custody, divorce, or protection orders, having the right support is crucial. I have found that professional family law services provide essential guidance and peace of mind during these challenging times. In this post, I will explain the key benefits of working with experts who specialise in family law. You will see why their knowledge and experience ma

Navigating family law matters can be challenging and emotionally taxing. Whether you are dealing with arrangements for children, divorce, or non-molestation orders, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. This guide will provide a clear and practical overview of family law expertise to help you make informed decisions. It will cover key areas of family law, explain common legal processes, and offer actionable advice for those seeking affordable support in the UK. Naviga

When it comes to caring for a child who cannot live with their birth parents, the legal options can seem overwhelming. One option that...

When facing family legal issues, the process can feel overwhelming and confusing. Whether you are dealing with child custody, divorce, or...

When a child’s living situation becomes uncertain, finding the right legal arrangement to protect their welfare is crucial. Child welfare guardianship plays a vital role in ensuring that children have a stable and secure environment. This post will guide you through the essentials of child welfare guardianship, explaining what it means, how it works, and how you can navigate the process effectively. What Is Child Welfare Guardianship? Child welfare guardianship is a legal sta

The Child Maintenance Service (CMS) is the government’s statutory child maintenance service for calculating, collecting and paying out child maintenance payments.

Non-Molestation Orders (NMO’s) are civil law orders whose main aim is to protect individuals from abuse or harassment.