Child Abduction

If you fear your child is to be abducted then the following urgent steps may need to be considered, by way of an example only:

• A prohibited steps order to prevent the removal of the child
• A Child Arrangements Order (lives with order)
• The child to be made a ward of court
• A sea and airport alert
• Contact the police
• A declaration of habitual residence
• Seizure of any relevant passports and travel documents
• Obtain specialist child abduction advice from a specialist family solicitor

In such a case much will depend on the relevant countries involved and whether European Union (EU) rules apply and/or 1980 Hague Convention on Child Abduction applies.

This can involve:

• The involvement of the Tipstaff in England & Wales to seek and locate the child
• Disclosure of any relevant information and records from third parties e.g. family members, government agencies, banks, airlines etc.
• Working with overseas family lawyers and courts
• Seeking an order from the court for the child’s return