Christmas is a time for family and celebration, but for separated parents across Liverpool, Wirral and Merseyside, agreeing holiday arrangements can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if conversations happen at the last minute.
This guide explains what the law expects, the steps you can take now, and your options if things don’t go to plan, so you and your children can enjoy the festive season with less stress.
Do I need mediation (MIAM) before going to court for Christmas contact?
In most cases, you’ll need to attend a Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to the family court, unless an exemption applies (such as domestic abuse, child protection concerns, or genuine urgency).
The government also offers a mediation voucher of up to £500 to help with costs. Mediation is usually quicker and less stressful than court, and judges expect parents to try non-court solutions first, so start early.
What’s the easiest way to agree Christmas contact without court?
A simple way to avoid misunderstandings is to use Cafcass’ “Our Child’s Plan” (a parenting plan). This helps you set clear arrangements, such as:
- Alternating Christmas Day each year
- Splitting the two-week school holiday fairly
- Agreeing handover times and locations
- Scheduling video or phone calls if one parent can’t be there in person
While not legally binding, a parenting plan shows you’ve acted reasonably, something courts look for if an application becomes necessary.
When should I apply for a Child Arrangements Order?
If you can’t agree and mediation isn’t suitable or has failed, you can apply for a Child Arrangements Order (or a Specific Issue / Prohibited Steps Order) using Form C100 (current fee £263).
The court process includes safeguarding checks and a first hearing (FHDRA), so apply as early as possible if you need a decision before Christmas.
How do I enforce an existing order if the other parent won’t comply?
If your Child Arrangements Order is being breached, for example, missed handovers, you can apply to enforce it using Form C79.
The court can impose enforcement measures, including unpaid work or compensation for financial loss, unless the other parent proves a reasonable excuse.
Act promptly if this happens.
Can I get help at the last minute, e.g., Christmas Eve?
The courts discourage avoidable last‑minute applications, but truly urgent cases (risk of harm, abduction concerns) can be considered under urgent/out‑of‑hours guidance in the Family Division.
Over the Christmas Vacation, only matters that require immediate or prompt hearing will be listed by Vacation Judges, applications should, where possible, be on notice to the other party.
Need support over Christmas? Our team is here to help
At the Jackson Lees Group, we’re friendly, expert family law solicitors in Liverpool & the Wirral, committed to doing what’s right for you and your children.
If Christmas contact plans are proving Please give us a call, request a callback or make an enquiry for swift, expert advice you can trust. We’ll help you know where you stand, explore mediation where safe, and act quickly if a court order or enforcement is needed.