Securing Equal Shared Care for a Father of a Newborn

Practice areas

  • Children arrangements
  • Shared care
  • Allegations of domestic abuse
  • Cultural considerations

Jurisdiction

England & Wales

Details have been anonymised to protect privacy.

Summary

We secured an Equal Shared Care Live With Order for a father of an eight-month-old child, despite allegations of domestic abuse, resistance to overnight contact, and concerns raised about the child’s age. The court accepted that shared care was both workable and in the child’s best interests, supported by a structured parenting plan tailored to the father’s shift pattern.

The challenge

After separation, informal arrangements were initially agreed. However, the situation deteriorated. Allegations of domestic abuse were raised and overnight contact stopped completely.

As a father of a very young child, our client faced additional barriers. The child’s age was used as a reason to resist shared care. His shift-based work pattern added practical complexity to scheduling. There were also underlying assumptions about what level of involvement a father of a baby might realistically expect.

He wanted to remain a fully involved parent but was unsure whether equal shared care would be considered achievable.

The SKB Way

From the outset, our focus was structure, credibility and forward planning.

We:

  • Clearly explained the legal framework and likely stages of proceedings
  • Addressed the allegations directly and proportionately
  • Developed a detailed 12-month parenting schedule aligned with shift work
  • Demonstrated how equal shared care could operate practically with an infant
  • Worked closely with counsel to present a calm, child-focused case

This was not about confrontation. It was about presenting a realistic, sustainable plan centred on the child.

Outcome

  • A Shared Care Live With Order was granted
  • Equal time was secured
  • A clear and sustainable parenting framework was put in place
  • The court accepted that shared care was appropriate and workable

Client reflection

“I knew I wanted a Shared Care Live With Order. It felt against the odds for a father of such a young baby. SKB helped me achieve that. My message to other fathers is: don’t give up.”

Full review available on Review Solicitors.

What this case shows

  • Fathers can achieve shared care, even with very young children
  • Courts respond to structured and credible parenting proposals
  • Allegations do not automatically prevent shared care
  • Early advice can change the direction of a case

Get in touch

If access to your child is being restricted or challenged, early advice matters. Speak to SKB Law.