What if parents cannot agree on a major decision about the child?

If parents are unable to agree about a decision concerning the upbringing of their child, they could try family mediation.

The aim of mediation is to lessen conflict and to try to resolve disputes amicably. The process of mediation differs throughout the country, in some mediation services parents are seen separately and then they are bought together to see if they can reach a compromise. In other mediation services the parents are seen together, sometimes with their solicitor or a representative present.

If the decision is something that cannot be compromised then either parent can apply to the court for a specific issue order. The parent does not have to have parental responsibility to be able to do this. This order is effectively asking the court to make the decision on behalf of the parents, the decision will be based on what the court thinks is in the best interests of the child.

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