How do I propose child care arrangements to the court?

It is, of course, best if you and your spouse can agree on matters concerning your children without the court having to make an order.

Once the arrangements have been agreed, the court must be notified. In England and Wales, when you commence divorce proceedings you must complete a Statement of Arrangements for Children (Form D8A), in which you give details of your child care proposals. Your spouse should also sign this form to verify that he or she agrees with these proposals.

If your spouse doesn't sign the form, the court will forward a copy to him or her, with a request to complete an Acknowledgement of Service (Form D10) and to indicate whether he or she agrees to your proposals concerning the children.

If your spouse disagrees with your proposals, he or she can submit his or her own proposals on the Statement of Arrangements and submit it to the court, which will then send you a copy. The judge considers the Statement of Arrangements after you apply for directions for trial.