Whatever difficulties your family is navigating, if you are concerned that your child may be moved without your consent, a Prohibited Steps Order could provide critical legal protection. Our experienced family law solicitors at Reeds help parents apply for these court orders under section 8 of the Children Act 1989, tailored to your specific case. We offer compassionate and expert guidance on questions you may be asking, such as how to stop a parent relocating your child abroad without agreement or preventing removal from school.
If you share parental responsibility, you cannot unilaterally make major decisions that impact your child’s life. This includes moving your child out of the UK or changing their school. A Prohibited Steps Order can block specific actions like removing the child from the country or legally changing their address. You must apply via Form C100 at the Family Court. If time is of the essence, an urgent without-notice hearing can be requested to prevent imminent removal or harmful action.
At Reeds we focus on clear communication and thoughtful legal strategy. We listen carefully to understand your concerns about contact disruption, schooling, welfare or relocation. We then help you build a structured application that reflects the court’s focus on the welfare principle, risk assessment and impact. As a parent facing a relocation dispute or fear of abduction, you need legal advice that is practical, direct and firmly based in law.
We recognise that every family is unique. We provide inclusive advice suited to your personal circumstances. Whether your case involves international travel concerns or UK-only disputes about living arrangements, our solicitors have hands-on experience with these proceedings. Many of our clients have successfully obtained Prohibited Steps Orders to prevent overseas removal, ensure school stability, and maintain contact with the non-relocating parent.
If someone breaches the order, this can lead to serious court enforcement. It may result in civil sanctions or even criminal contempt proceedings. That is why we prepare every case carefully, keeping you fully informed at every stage. Our team includes accredited members of the Law Society’s Children Panel and Resolution.
If you are searching for information on “how to stop my ex taking our child abroad without consent” or “legal help to obtain a Prohibited Steps Order in England and Wales”, we are your dedicated legal partner.
Do not hesitate to contact us early on so that we can take prompt action, protect your child’s welfare and give you clarity. Reach out through our contact page, call 0333 240 7373, or email [email protected].
How we can help
- Unparalleled Expertise: Our Family Law and Care Proceedings team include accredited members of the Law Society’s Children’s Panel and members of Resolution. All have extensive experience and expertise in family matters, with some having contributed to books and articles on the subject. Our Care Proceedings Solicitors are instructed by members of the public, professional agencies such as CAFCASS, and Local Authorities.
- Care and compassion: We will be firm when it comes to protecting your rights, the best interests of your children, and achieving the best outcome. But we believe family law is ultimately about people and understanding how devasting and emotional matters such as divorce, care proceedings, and child abduction can be. You are never just a client number to us; we will be there to support you and give you legal advice and representation you can trust.
- Fast acting and proactive: Some family law matters, such as getting Non-Molestation Orders and Port Orders for potential child abductions, require speed and tenacity to ensure you are protected. We know how the Court system works and have robust relationships with Local Authorities and the Police. Our Divorce Solicitors are familiar with common tactics used to stall financial settlement proceedings, especially in international and high-net-worth divorces. They will proactively enact strategies to ensure your case keeps moving forward.
- Comprehensive Services: Our Family Law Solicitors can help you with a full range of family matters, including but not limited to divorce, high net worth divorce, children’s law, care proceedings and PLO meetings, child abduction, Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders, and more. Regardless of how complicated your case is, we can provide the expertise and experience you need.
- Confidentiality and Discretion: Family law matters, especially those involving high net worth divorce and children, can be extremely sensitive. Rest assured, all discussions and information shared with our team are strictly confidential. Your privacy and reputation are paramount to us.
FAQs
What is a Prohibited Steps Order and who can apply for one?
A Prohibited Steps Order (PSO) is a court order that stops one parent from making certain decisions about a child without agreement. It can prevent actions such as changing schools, relocating, or removing a child from the country. You can apply if you have parental responsibility.
How do I apply for a Prohibited Steps Order?
You apply through the Family Court by completing a C100 form. If the situation is urgent, you can ask the court to hear your case without notifying the other parent first. The court will only grant a PSO if it is satisfied that it is necessary to protect the child’s welfare.
When is a Prohibited Steps Order used?
A PSO is often used when a parent fears the other might take action that could disrupt the child’s life, such as moving away or changing schools, without proper discussion. It can also be used to prevent harmful behaviour. The order applies to specific issues and does not cover general parental decisions.
How long does a Prohibited Steps Order last?
A PSO usually lasts until a set date, until the child reaches 16 (or sometimes 18), or until further order of the court. The court may review or extend it if the circumstances require. It is not a permanent solution and is usually used to manage risk during a dispute.
What happens if someone breaches a Prohibited Steps Order?
Breaching a PSO is a serious matter. The court may take enforcement action, which could include fines, changing existing orders, or, in extreme cases, contempt of court proceedings. If a breach puts a child at risk, you should seek urgent legal advice and report it to the court.
To find out more about Prohibited Steps Orders, reach out through our contact page, call 0333 240 7373, or email [email protected].