Enforcing a Child Arrangement Order When It's Being Ignored

Dealing with a child arrangement order being ignored is stressful enough, but when you’ve followed all the right steps through the courts and someone still refuses to comply, it can feel like you’re back to square one. Whether it’s your ex-partner denying access or breaching contact terms, it’s important to know you don’t have to handle it alone. At Beckett Solicitors, we support families across the UK in resolving disputes with confidence and compassion.

What Is a Child Arrangement Order?

A Child Arrangement Order (CAO) is issued by a family court and sets out where a child will live, how often they see each parent, and other vital details. Once made, it’s legally binding - so breaching it isn’t just frustrating, it can have serious consequences.

Unfortunately, breaches do happen, and when they do, you may need legal help to enforce the terms.

What Can You Do If the Order Is Ignored?

If the other parent is consistently ignoring the CAO - whether by refusing contact, changing plans without agreement or blocking communication - your first step should be to keep a record of what’s happened. Judges want to see patterns, not just isolated incidents.

Next, try to resolve the issue amicably if it’s safe to do so. Sometimes a simple conversation or mediation can fix misunderstandings without escalating things further.

However, if this doesn’t work, you can apply to the court to enforce the order. The court has the power to issue a warning notice, impose community service or even change who the child lives with in extreme cases.

When You Might Need a Solicitor

If you've reached the point where the CAO is being ignored repeatedly, a family law solicitor can guide you through the enforcement process. At Beckett Solicitors, we can:

●      Help you gather the right evidence

●      Represent you in court

●      Push for urgent action if your child’s welfare is at risk

We’ve worked with families all over the UK to bring clarity and calm to even the most complex family disputes.

Do You Need to Return to Court?

Not always, but often. If informal resolution fails and the breach is serious or ongoing, an application to court is the most effective way to restore the arrangement. The court will look at whether the breach was “reasonable” (e.g., illness) or deliberate, and make decisions in the best interest of the child.

Contact Beckett Solicitors Today

Don’t let a breached Child Arrangement Order go unchallenged. Whether you need a strong legal voice or a steady hand to guide you through, we’re here to help. Contact our team today for expert advice on child law.