The number of families turning to the courts to resolve child arrangement disputes continues to rise, placing greater demand on the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS). According to the latest CAFCASS figures, 59,147 new children’s cases were received during the 2025-26 financial year, representing a 7.2% increase compared with the previous year. Private law cases, which commonly involve disputes between separated parents about child arrangements, also saw a notable increase.
Behind these statistics are thousands of families seeking clarity on where a child should live, how much time they should spend with each parent, and how important decisions about their upbringing should be made. As cases become more complex, obtaining advice from an experienced child arrangement solicitor is becoming increasingly important to help parents understand their rights while keeping the child’s welfare at the centre of every decision.
Growing CAFCASS Caseloads Reflect Increasing Pressure on the Family Justice System
Private law children cases typically arise when separated parents cannot agree on arrangements for their children. While many families resolve disputes through discussion or mediation, others require the involvement of the family courts to reach a legally binding decision.
The continued rise in CAFCASS referrals highlights the growing pressures on the family justice system. Changes in family dynamics, increasing awareness of children’s welfare, and more complex parenting arrangements all contribute to the rising number of applications.
For parents, this means court proceedings may take longer than expected, making early legal advice even more valuable. A specialist child arrangement solicitor can help parents understand the legal process, explore alternatives to court where appropriate, and ensure they are fully prepared should litigation become necessary.
Child Arrangement Orders Are Designed Around a Child’s Best Interests
Family courts in England and Wales determine child arrangement cases using the welfare principle established under the Children Act 1989. Every decision is made according to what is considered to be in the child’s best interests rather than the preferences of either parent.
A Child Arrangements Order can determine:
- Where a child will live.
- How much time they spend with each parent.
- Contact arrangements with wider family members where appropriate.
- Practical matters such as holidays, education and significant life decisions.
Although many parents initially search online for a family lawyer or child lawyer after separation, understanding the legal framework early can help reduce uncertainty and encourage constructive discussions before disputes escalate.
Section 7 CAFCASS Reports Often Influence Court Decisions
As the number of contested child arrangement cases grows, so too does the importance of the Section 7 CAFCASS report.
When the court requires additional information before making a decision, it may direct CAFCASS to prepare a Section 7 report. An independent Family Court Adviser will assess the family’s circumstances and provide recommendations focused entirely on the child’s welfare.
A Section 7 CAFCASS report may consider:
- The child’s wishes and feelings where appropriate.
- Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
- Emotional, educational and physical wellbeing.
- Safeguarding concerns.
- Relationships with parents and other significant family members.
Although judges are not required to follow every recommendation, these reports often carry significant weight and can shape the outcome of child arrangement proceedings.
Understanding how the assessment works and seeking legal advice before the process begins can help parents present relevant information clearly and effectively.
Early Legal Advice Can Help Families Resolve Disputes More Constructively
While court proceedings are sometimes unavoidable, they are not always the first or best solution.
An experienced child arrangement solicitor can assist with negotiation, mediation support, consent orders and parenting agreements before matters progress to a final hearing.
Resolving disagreements at an earlier stage can reduce legal costs, minimise stress for everyone involved and, most importantly, provide greater stability for children.
Legal advice also helps parents understand what the court expects if proceedings become necessary, ensuring they approach the process with realistic expectations rather than misinformation gathered from online discussions or social media.
Parents Are Searching for Trusted Legal Guidance Before Speaking to a Solicitor
Search behaviour has changed significantly over recent years. Rather than searching only for “family solicitor near me”, many parents now use detailed, intent-driven searches before contacting a legal professional.
Common searches include:
- Family lawyer for child arrangements.
- Child lawyer for contact disputes.
- Child arrangement solicitor near me.
- What is a Section 7 CAFCASS report?
- How does CAFCASS decide child arrangements?
- Do I need a solicitor for child arrangements?
This shift means authoritative, evidence-based legal content is becoming increasingly important. Parents are looking for clear explanations that help them understand court procedures, legal terminology and the role of professionals involved in family proceedings before taking the next step.
Specialist Family Law Expertise Matters
Not every solicitor regularly deals with child arrangement disputes. While many firms offer family law alongside a broad range of legal services, specialist practices often have more extensive experience handling child arrangements, safeguarding concerns and CAFCASS involvement.
One such example is Holland Family Law, a specialist family law firm based in Leicester that advises clients on child arrangements, divorce, financial settlements and other family law matters. Recognising that taking the first step can feel daunting, the firm offers a free 30-minute consultation, giving parents the opportunity to discuss their circumstances, understand their legal options and decide on the most appropriate course of action before committing to further legal support.
For parents searching for an experienced child arrangement solicitor, family lawyer or child lawyer, speaking to a specialist early in the process can provide valuable clarity, particularly where a section 7 CAFCASS report may form part of the court proceedings. Early legal advice often helps families make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary delays and keep the focus on achieving the best outcome for their child.
Rising Demand Highlights the Value of Early Legal Support
The latest CAFCASS figures demonstrate that more families than ever are relying on the family justice system to resolve child arrangement disputes. While every family’s circumstances are unique, one principle remains unchanged: the child’s welfare is always the court’s highest priority.
As demand continues to grow, understanding the role of a Section 7 Cafcass Report and seeking advice from an experienced child arrangement solicitor at an early stage can help parents make informed decisions, navigate proceedings with greater confidence and work towards arrangements that provide children with the stability and support they need for the future.
