Family Law · Children · Relocation Disputes
Child Relocation Disputes in Chester & Cheshire
Moving Within the UK or Abroad with Children After Separation
Urgent advice available. Serving Chester, Cheshire, Ellesmere Port, Wrexham and North Wales.
Get Urgent AdviceUrgent: Child Taken Abroad Without Consent?
If your child has been taken abroad without your consent, contact the police immediately and call us on 01244 757352. Time is critical. We can apply for emergency court orders and work with international authorities to secure your child's return.
Child relocation disputes arise when one parent wants to move — either within the UK or abroad — with the children after separation, and the other parent objects. These cases can be among the most emotionally charged in family law, with significant consequences for both the children and the parents involved.
Our Chester family law solicitors advise both parents seeking to relocate and parents opposing relocation across Chester, Cheshire and North Wales. We provide clear, practical advice on your legal position and represent you in court proceedings where necessary.
Applying to Relocate
If you want to move abroad or to a different part of the UK with your children and the other parent objects, you will need to apply to the court for permission. We advise on:
- Whether you need permission to move
- Building a strong relocation application
- Proposing a realistic contact plan for the other parent
- Representing you at the relocation hearing
Opposing Relocation
If the other parent wants to relocate with your children and you object, you have the right to oppose the application. We advise on:
- Your legal rights and the strength of your case
- Filing a response to the relocation application
- Preventing the child from being taken abroad urgently
- Representing you at the relocation hearing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move abroad with my children after separation?
No — not without the consent of everyone with parental responsibility or a court order permitting the move. Taking a child abroad without permission from all those with parental responsibility (or a court order) is child abduction under English law, regardless of your intentions. If you want to relocate abroad with your children, you must either obtain the agreement of the other parent or apply to the court for permission.
Can I move within the UK with my children without permission?
Moving within England and Wales does not require the other parent's consent unless there is a court order in place that restricts where the child lives. However, if the move would significantly affect the other parent's contact with the child, it is strongly advisable to seek agreement or a court order before moving. Moving to Scotland or Northern Ireland is treated differently and may require consent or a court order.
What factors does the court consider in a relocation application?
The court's paramount consideration is the welfare of the child. Factors include: the reasons for the proposed move; the impact on the child's relationship with the non-relocating parent; the plans for maintaining contact; the child's wishes (depending on age and maturity); the impact on the child's education, friendships and wider family; and the impact on the relocating parent if the application is refused.
What happens if my ex takes the children abroad without my consent?
This is child abduction — a serious criminal offence. You should contact the police immediately and seek urgent legal advice. If the destination country is a signatory to the Hague Convention on Child Abduction, there are international mechanisms to secure the return of the child. We can advise on urgent steps to take and apply for emergency court orders.
How do I oppose a relocation application?
If the other parent has applied to the court for permission to relocate with your children, you have the right to oppose the application. You will need to file a response setting out your objections and the impact on your relationship with the children. The court will consider all the evidence and the welfare of the child. We can represent you in opposing a relocation application.
How long does a relocation case take?
Relocation cases are often dealt with urgently by the courts, particularly where there is a risk of the child being taken abroad without permission. An urgent application can be heard within days. A full contested relocation hearing typically takes 3–6 months. Early legal advice is essential.
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Martin brings almost 30 years of specialist family law experience to every case — divorce, separation, financial settlements and children matters. Clients value his straight-talking honesty, patience, and genuine emotional support throughout what is often a very difficult time.
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