Family Law · Children & Custody
Children & Custody Solicitors in Chester
Sensitive, Practical Advice — Always Putting Children First
Part of our wider Family Law services
Speak to a Family Law SolicitorWhen a relationship breaks down and children are involved, decisions about where they live and how they spend time with each parent are often the most important matters to resolve.
At PDA Law, our family law solicitors provide sensitive, practical advice on all matters relating to children — always with their welfare at the centre of everything we do.
What We Advise On
- Child arrangements orders (where children live and contact)
- Residence and contact disputes
- Parental responsibility
- Relocation — moving within the UK or abroad
- Prohibited steps orders
- Specific issue orders
- Grandparent contact
- Emergency protective orders
Child Arrangements Orders
A child arrangements order sets out where a child lives and how they spend time with each parent. Courts make these orders when parents cannot agree — but in many cases, agreement can be reached without court involvement.
We always explore whether agreement is possible before recommending court proceedings. This saves time, cost and emotional strain for everyone involved.
Do Fathers Have Equal Rights?
The law does not favour one parent over another. Courts focus on the child's welfare — not the gender of the parent. Both mothers and fathers have the right to be involved in their children's lives.
If you are a father concerned about your rights, we encourage you to speak to us early. Early advice often leads to better outcomes.
Avoiding Court Where Possible
Court proceedings involving children can be stressful and costly. We always consider whether mediation or negotiation can resolve matters first.
Where court is unavoidable, we provide clear, firm representation to protect your position and your children's welfare.
Costs & Practical Advice
We understand that cost is a concern, particularly when finances are already under strain. While we do not offer legal aid, we:
- Explain costs clearly from the outset
- Discuss your options before work begins
- Focus on proportionate, practical solutions
We'll explain costs clearly before any work begins.
Your Family Law Specialist

Your Family Law Specialist
Martin Dias
Family Law Executive
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.
Related Family Law Services
Speak to a Children Law Solicitor
If you have concerns about your children's arrangements, our family law team is here to help.
You don't have to decide today — talk through your options first.
Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
“When my marriage broke down, my biggest concern was my children. Martin understood that immediately — he focused on what mattered most and helped us reach an arrangement that worked for everyone, without unnecessary conflict.”
Sarah W.
Child arrangements, Chester
* Names changed to protect client confidentiality. Testimonials reflect genuine client experiences.
Get Started
Speak to a Children Law Solicitor
No obligation · Costs explained clearly · Early advice often protects your position
Prefer to speak with us? Call 01244 757352