UK divorce rules on child custody refer to the way the courts determine who should have the care and control of a child in divorce proceedings. Custody is now referred to as contact and residence. It is common for parents to have joint contact, although the children will reside in the main with just one parent.
If you cannot agree about the grounds of divorce, the court will make a decision for you, based on what is in the best interests of the child. Divorce rules mean the courts tend to award physical custody to the parent who demonstrates the most financial security, adequate parenting skills and the least disruption for the child.
Divorce rules on contact and residence concern all children born to you and your spouse, plus stepchildren and adopted children under 16, and between 16 and 18 if in full-time education. When you start divorce proceedings, you must fill in a Form D&A to set out your proposals for child care.
It is important to note that after proceedings the court has the right to change its mind at any time following application by either parent; this is particularly useful if one parent’s circumstances or behavior changes.
Well, perhaps more accurately we should say it’s hit an impasse.

