Prohibited Steps Orders
At Cullimore Dutton, our experienced family law solicitors provide more than just legal advice. When you work with us, you’ll benefit from more protection, more clarity, and more confidence.
We support parents and guardians seeking urgent legal protection for their children, particularly where there is a risk that one parent may take action without consent, such as relocating a child, changing their school, or taking them abroad. A Prohibited Steps Order is a powerful legal tool that prevents such actions from taking place without court approval.
Whether you're concerned about your child’s safety, relocation without agreement, or other matters that require legal intervention, our team is here to guide you with sensitivity, professionalism, and in-depth knowledge of family law.
We understand how stressful and emotional these situations can be. As one of the few firms offering both legal and financial services under one roof, we’re uniquely placed to provide comprehensive, practical advice that supports the welfare of your child while protecting your legal rights.
Our experts can support you in various ways, including:
- Legal advice on Prohibited Steps Orders
- Applying for a Prohibited Steps Order
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Appealing a Prohibited Steps Order
Contact our Prohibited Steps Order Solicitors in Chester
To speak to a member of our expert family law team about a Prohibited Steps Order, please contact us today.
Call 01244 356789 or complete the enquiry form on our homepage, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Our Prohibited Steps Order Services
Legal advice on Prohibited Steps Orders
A Prohibited Steps Order is a legal measure that restricts a parent or guardian from making certain decisions about a child without prior consent. These might include decisions about schooling, relocation, travel abroad, or changes to the child’s name.
At Cullimore Dutton, we provide practical, straightforward advice tailored to your situation. Our solicitors will explain the purpose and limitations of a Prohibited Steps Order, assess whether it is the appropriate step for your circumstances, and help you assess your options.
When providing support, we will always put the needs of your child first, ensuring that decisions are based on their welfare and long-term stability.
Applying for a Prohibited Steps Order
If you believe that a parent or guardian may take action that is not in your child’s best interests, or without your consent, you may need to apply for a Prohibited Steps order through the family court.
Our solicitors will guide you through each stage of the application process, including:
- Drafting and submitting a Prohibited Steps Order application form
- Gathering supporting evidence (e.g. emails, messages, or previous agreements)
- Requesting an emergency hearing if the situation is urgent
- Representing your interests in court proceedings
We understand that these matters often arise in stressful and time-sensitive circumstances. If you need to apply for an emergency Prohibited Steps Order, please contact our specialist team, we are able to act quickly, helping you to protect your child.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
In some cases, it may be possible to resolve concerns without going to court. We offer guidance on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as mediation or solicitor-led negotiation.
ADR allows both parents to reach agreements in a more constructive, less confrontational environment. This approach can preserve co-parenting relationships, reduce stress, and deliver faster outcomes, all while keeping your child’s best interests at the forefront.
While ADR is not suitable in every case, especially where there are safeguarding concerns, we always explore the possibility of out-of-court resolution before pursuing litigation.
Where prohibited steps are necessary to protect your child’s safety, our team will support you to secure an order as quickly as possible. Where a child is suspected to be at risk of harm, we can help you to secure a Prohibited Steps Order without notice.
Appealing a Prohibited Steps Order
If a Prohibited Steps Order has been made against you and you believe it was unjust or no longer reflects your current circumstances, you may be able to appeal or apply for it to be varied or discharged.
We can advise you on:
- Whether grounds for appeal exist
- How to apply to have the order reviewed or amended
- What evidence will strengthen your case
- Your legal rights and obligations under the existing order
Appeals must be handled carefully and promptly. Our experienced family law team will ensure your case is prepared thoroughly, helping you present a clear and well-reasoned argument to the court.
Why Choose Cullimore Dutton for Prohibited Steps Order Solicitors?
With a heritage dating back to 1792, Cullimore Dutton is one of the region’s most established and respected law firms. Over the years, we’ve built a reputation for delivering clear, compassionate, and expert legal support to families navigating some of life’s most challenging moments.
What sets us apart is our ability to provide both legal and financial advice under one roof. This integrated approach allows us to take a holistic view of your situation, offering practical solutions that not only address the legal complexities of your case but also support your long-term stability and peace of mind.
Our family law team has decades of experience handling urgent applications, including Prohibited Steps Orders and emergency cases. We approach every matter with clarity, care, and a strong focus on the child’s welfare, ensuring that your case is managed with sensitivity and professionalism from the outset.
When you work with Cullimore Dutton, you gain direct access to a supportive legal team who are genuinely invested in achieving the best possible outcome for your family. We are dedicated to providing more reassurance, more care, and more security.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prohibited Steps Orders
What is a Prohibited Steps Order?
A Prohibited Steps Order is a court order that stops a parent or guardian from carrying out certain actions regarding a child without the court’s permission. This might include taking a child abroad, changing their school or surname, or moving them to a new location.
How do you get a Prohibited Steps Order?
To apply for a Prohibited Steps Order, you must file an application with the family court. It should detail the concerns you have and the actions you want to prevent. If the matter is urgent, you may be able to request an emergency hearing. It is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure your application is clear, evidence-based, and focused on the child’s welfare.
What are the chances of a Prohibited Steps Order being granted by the court?
The court will consider whether issuing the order is in the best interests of the child. If there is credible concern that a parent might take potentially harmful action, the court is likely to grant the order, especially if there is a history of disputes or previous unauthorised actions.
How do you overturn a Prohibited Steps Order?
To overturn a Prohibited Steps Order, you must apply to the court to have it discharged or varied. You’ll need to demonstrate a change in circumstances or provide evidence that the order is no longer necessary or appropriate. It is crucial to show how the change benefits the child’s welfare.
How long does it take to get a Prohibited Steps Order in the UK?
The timescale can vary depending on the urgency of the case. For emergency situations, the court can issue a Prohibited Steps Order within 24 hours.
Standard applications may take several weeks, depending on the court's availability and the complexity of the case. Legal advice can help speed up the process and ensure your application is properly prepared.
Contact our Prohibited Steps Order Solicitors in Chester
To speak to a family law expert about securing a prohibited steps order, please get in touch with our team today.
Call us on 01244356789or fill out the enquiry form on our home page. A member of our team will respond as soon as possible.