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Child Abduction: Increase in the number of parental abduction cases

Figures released by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (the FCO) reveal that the number of parental child abduction cases has more than doubled over the last decade

In 2003/04, the FCO dealt with 272 new child abduction and custody cases; in 2012/13 the figure had risen to 580 new cases.

In these days of frequent foreign travel, and the growth in the number of international families, it is easy to see how such circumstances can arise.

To raise the profile of the issue, the FCO has launched a short film which aims to encourage parents “to think of the consequences before doing something that could do lasting damage to the children and families involved.” The video can be viewed here.

James Maguire & Co can advise on the steps that are available to parents if their fear that their child may be taken abroad without their consent.  We can also advise parents on their options to secure their child’s return to England and Wales. For further information, please click here.

To hear James Maguire talking about the issues raised by child abduction, please click here and then select the BBC logo.

For specialist advice on any family law related issue contact Maguire Family Law by email: james.maguire@family-law.co.uk or telephone:

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