My colleague, Mark Smith, reminded us in his article, International Child Relocation – lessons from a recent Court decision, that it is important to provide “cogent, precise and clear” evidence in support of an application to relocate a child abroad. That evidence may come in the form of a witness statement. This is a document setting out your case and signed by you to confirm that what you say is true.
So, you’ve made an application to move your child from England/Wales to another part of the UK and the Court has directed you to provide a witness statement in support of your application, but where do you start? Here are some basic points to think about when writing your witness statement:
- Quite simply, why do you want to relocate?
- How do you think the move effect the child(ren) and your family’s lifestyle?
- You might be moving with a new partner so the Court will want to see evidence that the relationship is secure, enduring and committed.
- House moves are notoriously expensive – can you show that you can afford the move?
- Have you decided on where the children will go to school and what the school is like?
- The move might increase both yours and the child(ren)s career prospects – make sure you mention this.
- How does the move affect the child arrangements and what is your plan to support the child(ren)s continuing relationship with the other parent?
The above are just some of the number of points that you should thinking about when writing your statement. It needs to convince the Court that the move will benefit the children and that you have thoroughly thought this through. In short, you should try not to leave any stone unturned.
At Stephens Scown, we have specialist Children Law solicitors who are experienced in representing clients in applications to relocate a child and we can assist with the preparation of witness statements. If you would like help with this, please contact our Children Team on 0345 450 5558 or enquiries@stephens-scown.co.uk and we would be happy to help.